The 20th of March greeted us with almost 3 inches of wet heavy snow. Comments from people ranged from, “It’s still only March,” to “We have had enough.” An early spring snow, though, does not last and it is not like getting 3 inches on the 20th of January. Knowing that, I was able to look at the beauty of the landscape, the way the snow lined the branches on trees and bushes; the way the crocus and snow drops and scilla showed their color through the pure white snow; the singing of the early robins and the wintering cardinals. Then, the sun came out and danced across the blanketed land and trees.
This is the last week of Lent and its somber mood. The sanctuary is garbed in purples and violets. The psalm tones are in a minor key. The hymns speak of repentance and sacrifice. On March 21st, we recognized “Rose Sunday” and the sanctuary had roses in vases and baskets brightening up the somber space. We recognized members for their special help in volunteering with programming, patience in illness, encouragement in financial support, and strength for the journey. The liturgy now moves into Holy Week and the Passion of Jesus. The bright spot in the sanctuary is the “Easter Tree” the children are decorating as we lift up symbols of the Passion and Resurrection of Our Lord. I am waiting for the “tree” to bloom on Easter.
The sun is shining and bright today as I write this note and the warmth by the window encourages me to think Easter, think Spring, think Resurrection, and prepare for the gardens and the joy of the year ahead.
Pastor Mayer