“As the time approached for him to be taken up to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem.” –Luke 9:51
service. This is the climax of the Christian year! Almost every day has a tremendous significance.
Sometimes I wish we could spread those days out and have more time to explore the depth of meaning that they contain. The challenge is to make each day important, and allow God’s mes-sage contained in them to last all year long.
For us, Holy Week is a big celebration. But let’s remember how it was originally experienced. The Gospel of Luke calls attention to the moment when Jesus turned his face toward Jerusalem.
I can almost feel the burden of realizing that this was the final journey he would take before he died. Each step from then on must have gotten heavier than the one before, each mile harder than the mile before.
And yet, despite his personal struggles, coming to terms with his impending suffering, abandonment, and death, Jesus continues to put the needs of others before himself: serving, healing, teaching, inspiring. And when he finally arrives at the Holy City, he bursts into tears. He cries NOT for his own fate, but for the many citizens of the city. ―If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace—but now it is hidden from your eyes.‖ Jesus is filled not with self-pity but compassion for others.
The events of Holy Week, from the triumphant entry to the glorious day of resurrection, are reminders that this
person from the pages of scripture whom we call Jesus… is truly worthy of our praise. He LOVED and he LOVES and he is LOVE! He also LIVED and he LIVES and he is LIFE!Now and always! Jesus Is Risen!
“As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it.” –Luke 19:41
Grace and peace, Pastor Andy
Palm Sunday, April 13: During our regular service at 10:30 a.m.,
we will remember the triumphal entry of Jesus into the Holy City with palms. The bell choir will provide special music as we recall both the joy and the sorrow at the start of Holy Week. The theme will be ―Feast of Love: Community.‖ At 2:00 p.m. there will be an Easter Egg Hunt.
Love Feast on Maundy Thursday, April 17: In the fellowship hall, we will come together at 7:00 p.m. as a church family to remember
Jesus’ Last Supper by celebrating the Brethren practice of the Love Feast. We will pray, sing, share a simple meal, wash feet, partake of communion, and be united as the Body of Christ. All are welcome,
including children. Curious observers are also welcome to participate as they feel comfortable.
Good Friday, April 18: The office will be closed. Everyone is invited at 7:30 a.m. to meet at the church for a morning hike. An interactive worship service remembering the crucifixion of Jesus will be offered at 6:30 p.m. in the sanctuary with the theme, ―It Is Finished.‖
Easter Sunday, April 20: Start the day with a sunrise service at 8:00 a.m. up at the pavilion on the hill behind the church. Parking by the tennis courts is available for those concerned about walking up the hill. Breakfast follows the service at around 8:30 a.m. Sunday school will be at its regular time 9:30 a.m., followed by normal worship time
as we celebrate the resurrection of Christ Jesus. The choir and the
children will sing a joint anthem and the theme for this joyous day will be ―Love Alive.‖
