Anticipating an Extra-Ordinary Time
If we do things carefully, we may well experience a special liturgical season between Pentecost and Advent this year. Calendars for the liturgical year offer two Ordinary Times (from the end of the Christmas season until Ash Wednesday; and from the day after Pentecost until the first Sunday of Advent). The Ordinary Time which follows Pentecost comprises approximately half of the calendar year and is sometimes affectionately referred to as "the green time of the year" since that is the liturgical colour associated with the season.
Why green? People in the southern hemisphere certainly wouldn’t easily buy into the reference made by some in the north who suggest it as being a "fertile" season. Of the many symbolic meanings of this colour in the church, the one which is most universally identified with the season is Hope. A common visual symbol for Ordinary Time is fish and bread, a reference to one of the miracle stories of Jesus’ ministry.
We’ve certainly lived Lent in 2020 and 2021. Now, if we can only move forward with patience, discipline and common sense, we may be able to actually embrace a realistic vision for a return to in-person gathering and singing at some point during this green season — especially if we keep Hope in our headlights.
One of my author friends jokingly referred to the post Pentecost - pre Advent time as "the green time when nothing happens". Maybe this year should be seen as an opportunity to make something happen; to create an Extra-Ordinary Time!
Linnea Good
In addition to being a wonderful songwriter, Linnea is a creative and masterful storyteller. Her ongoing series of scripture and lectionary-based videos represent an outstanding resource to which you can subscribe. Linnea’s videos are a tremendous resource for those who are providing online worship opportunities. For a taste, have a peek at
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=06kE61eNxj8. Then you’ll definitely want to contact her at
https://www.linneagood.com to sign up!
"Have a good day"
How many times a day have we heard or spoken that sentiment? Walter Farquharson has begun using a variation on it which he learned from his son, Scott: "Create a good day." So friends, create a good day.
RK
