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As we approach Holy Week…
May we be open to the Holy Spirit of God stirring within us…
May we be wary of the Palm Sunday “Hosanna-shouting” crowds that will change the cadence of their chants…
May we hold compassion for the Disciples during the Last Supper – that though they had been told – they still did not comprehend…
May we be bold enough to stay awake in the garden…may we not deny knowing Christ…while forgiving those that do…
May we allow ourselves to grieve his death…not running to the tomb before it is empty.
My friends, as we prepare our hearts to celebrate – once again – the resurrection of Jesus Christ, our Lord & Savior – I encourage you each to take some time to pause! Take a deep breath of God’s peace and enter into this coming Holy Week with a commitment to approach these holy days with a renewed sense of purpose: a purpose which compels you to share the indescribable breadth and depth of Christ’s love for ALL that will not be defined by torture on a cross…but by the freedom of an empty tomb.
Pastors…I encourage you to mentally, physically and emotionally prepare for these days ahead. Take some intentional time away from your church buildings to gather your thoughts, connect with God, and prepare your body, mind and spirit for the emotional journey of Holy Week! And even if you’re a seasoned pastor and you have many years of Holy Week experience…please remember this: hydrate, pray and rest!
Lay Leaders…thank you for bearing witness to the events of Holy Week and contributing your prayers and worship participation in the special services prepared for your congregation. You are a gift to your pastors and your faith communities! Please encourage one another and be ready to fill a need should something unexpected happen.
Members and friends…please pray for your pastors and leadership teams. Holy Week and Easter Sunday add multiple layers of responsibilities upon your church leadership. Practice patience and kindness in the midst of it all and know how very much of a blessing you are to your community of faith!
My prayer for each of you is that in the remembrance of Holy Week, you will be filled with indescribable appreciation, joy and a renewed sense of call on Easter morning that will nudge you into the next chapter of your faith journey.
As always, be a blessing, Disciples…
Alison
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