A Worship Magazine
Easley Presbyterian Church
Easley, SC
April 2017
Vol. 3 Issue 3
A common thread that joins us together with Christ and with each other.
The Season of Easter Easter or Resurrection Sunday is the day Christians celebrate the resurrection of Jesus the Christ from the dead. Even before theologians explained the death of Jesus in terms of various atonement theories, the early church saw his resurrection as the central witness to a new act of God in history and the victory of God in vindicating Jesus as the Messiah. This event marks the central faith confession of the early church and was the focal point for Christian worship, observed on the first day of each week since the first century. “The Morning of the Resurrection” Sir Edward Coley Burne-Jones, 1882 Easter as an annual celebration of the Resurrection that lies at the cenThe Colors of Easter: ter of a liturgical year has been observed at least White and Gold since the fourth century. Easter, like Passover, is a movable feast. That is, Color used in worship is especially important the date of Easter (and Passover) is not fixed but during the season of Easter. The changing colors is determined by a system based on a lunar calof the sanctuary from the purple of Lent to the endar adapted from a formula decided by the black of Good Friday provide graphic visual symCouncil of Nicaea in AD 325. In this system, Easter bols for the Lenten journey. The change of colors is celebrated on the first Sunday following the first for Easter and the following Sundays helps comfull moon after the Spring equinox, which means municate the movement of sacred time as well the date of Easter can range between March 22 as personal faith journeys. and April 25 depending on the lunar cycle. Since The Sanctuary colors for Easter Sunday and Jewish Passover is calculated differently, the Ascension Day are white and gold, the colors of dates for Passover and Easter do not correspond, sacred days throughout the church year. For the although often the first Day of Passover falls durEaster season, white symbolizes the hope of the ing Holy Week. Much of the calendar of the resurrection, as well as the purity and newness Church year is determined by the date of Easter that comes from victory over sin and death. The Like Christmas, Easter itself is a period of time gold (or yellow) symbolizes the light of the world rather than just a day. It is actually a seven-week brought by the risen Christ that enlightens the season of the church year called Eastertide, the world, as well as the exaltation of Jesus as Lord Great Fifty Days that begins at sundown the and King. The sanctuary color for the other five evening before Easter Sunday (the Easter Vigil) Sundays of Easter is usually also white and gold. and lasts for six more Sundays until Pentecost SunSymbols and Themes of Easter day. ——Dennis Bratcher, The Christian Resource Institute New life is the central theme of Easter. Appropriate symbols include the lily and the butterfly.
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Sunday, April 2 Fifth Sunday of Lent “A Robe and Crown” Matthew 27:1-26
When morning came, all the chief priests and the elders of the people conferred together against Jesus in order to bring about his death. They bound him, led him away, and handed him over to Pilate the governor. When Judas, his betrayer, saw that Jesus was condemned, he repented and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders. He said, “I have sinned by betraying innocent blood.” But they said, “What is that to us? See to it yourself.” Throwing down the pieces of silver in the temple, he departed; and he went and hanged himself. But the chief priests, taking the pieces of silver, said, “It is not lawful to put them into the treasury, since they are blood money.” After conferring together, they used them to buy the potter’s field as a place to bury foreigners. For this reason that field has been called the Field of Blood to this day. Then was fulfilled what had been spoken through the prophet Jeremiah, “And they took the thirty pieces of silver, the price of the one on whom a price had been set, on whom some of the people of Israel had set a price, and they gave them for the potter’s field, as the Lord commanded me.” Now Jesus stood before the governor; and the governor asked him, “Are you the King of the Jews?” Jesus said, “You say so.” But when he was accused by the chief priests and elders, he did not answer. Then Pilate said to him, “Do you not hear how many accusations they make against you?” But he gave him no answer, not even to a single charge, so that the governor was greatly amazed. Now at the festival the governor was accustomed to release a prisoner for the crowd, anyone whom they wanted. that time they had a notorious prisoner, called Jesus Barabbas. So after they had gathered, Pilate said to them, “Whom do you want me to release for you, Jesus Barabbas or Jesus who is called the Messiah?” For he realized that it was out of jealousy that they had handed him over. While he was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent word to him, “Have nothing to do with that innocent man, for today I have suffered a great deal because of a dream about him.” Now the chief priests and the elders persuaded the crowds to ask for Barabbas and to have Jesus killed. The governor again said to them, “Which of the two do you want me to release for you?” And they said, “Barabbas.” Pilate said to them, “Then what should I do with Jesus who is called the Messiah?” All of them said, “Let him be crucified!” Then he asked, “Why, what evil has he done?” But they shouted all the more, “Let him be crucified!” So when Pilate saw that he could do nothing, but rather that a riot was beginning, he took some water and washed his hands before the crowd, saying, “I am innocent of this man’s blood; see to it yourselves.” Then the people as a whole answered, “His blood be on us and on our children!” So he released Barabbas for them; and after flogging Jesus, he handed him over to be crucified.
Hymn Meditation: “Holy, Holy, Holy” click on title to listen
'Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty who was, and is, and is to come.” (Revelation 4:8). These are the words of worship that believers will proclaim in heaven one day. This majestic text based on these words were written over 150 years ago by an Anglican minister, Reginald Heber, and it is still one of the hymns most frequently used in our corporate worship. Worship is the cornerstone of a believer’s spiritual life. The bedrock of the local church is its worship service, and all aspects of the church’s ministry are founded here. It is only as a Christian truly worships that he begins to grow spiritually. Learning to worship and praise God, then, should be a believer’s lifetime pursuit. Our worship reflects the depth of our relationship with God. We must learn to worship God not only for what He is doing in our own lives, but above all for who He is — His being, character, and deeds. The hymn tune NICAEA was written in 1861 by John B. Dykes. The name is given in honor of the council of Nicaea who met to discuss, debate, and finally ratify the Nicean Creed. The core subject of this historic church creed is the Trinity of God. What we take for granted now was of great controversy then. This council has helped to shape our understanding of who God is. With this
3 Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty! Early in the morning our song shall rise to thee. Holy, holy, holy! Merciful and mighty, God in three persons, blessed Trinity! Holy, holy, holy! All the saints adore thee, Casting down their golden crowns around the glassy sea; Cherubim and seraphim falling down before thee, Which wert, and art, and evermore shalt be. Holy, holy, holy! Though the darkness hide thee, Though the eye of sinful man thy glory may not see, Only thou art holy; there is none beside thee, Perfect in power, in love and purity.
greater understanding of God, who can help but fall on their knees and cry “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God almighty — God in three Persons, blessed Trinity!”
Hymn Meditation: “For the Bread Which You have Broken” click on title to listen “A Table Prepared for Us”
“O taste and see that the Lord is good.” Psalm 34:8 The psalmist calls for us to fully experience God’s goodness — experience with all of our senses. Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty! All thy works shall praise thy name, This morning, as you come into worship. Look over at in earth and sky and sea. the stained glass windows. See how the Light of Christ Holy, holy, holy! Merciful and mighty, transforms the glass into something radiant and beautiful. God in three persons, blessed Trinity. Thank God for his transforming power and for the beauty — Reginald Heber around us. Listen as the organ plays. Let the music wash over you and reach into you and move you. Thank God for the beauty of music. Thank Him for the way He reaches deep inside us and stirs For the bread, which You have broken; our heart toward worship. For the wine, which You have poured; Touch the pew in front of you. Feel the smooth and strong For the words, which You have spoken wood. Thank God for His sturdiness — for His strong and never- Now we give You thanks, O Lord. changing faithful- By this promise that You love us, ness to us. By Your gift of peace restored, Open the Bible By Your call to Heaven above us, and smell the pag- Hallow all our lives, O Lord. es. (I happen to With the saints who now adore You love the smell of Seated at the heavenly board, old books.) That’s May the Church still waiting for You the smell of learn- Keep love’s tie unbroken, Lord. ing. It’s a smell that stretches back In Your service, Lord, defend us, through time and In our hearts keep watch and ward; connects us to the In the world to which You send us past. Thank God Let Your kingdom come, O Lord. — Louis Fitzgerlad Benson, 1924
for this connection with worshippers throughout the centuries who have studied the Word and passed it down with great love and dedication. During communion, savor the taste of the bread and juice. Taste the sweetness of God’s mercy. Thank Him for the bitterness He drank so we could experience this sweetness. Thank him for all of our senses and how He “speaks” to us through them all. A few years ago, while I was helping serve communion, a little boy came to the altar to be served. He knelt down beside his parents and held out his hands to receive the little cup of grape juice. He drank the juice with gusto, smacked his lips and let out a big “Ah!” I couldn’t help
4 but chuckle to myself at this child’s exuberance in receiving holy communion. After the service I had time to let that moment sink in a bit. The verse from Psalms echoed in my mind: “O taste and see that the Lord is good.” What a wonderful image of joy that pared with that verse. Communion is a holy act that strengthens us and sustains us. It fills us with grace. But this is a reminder that it also satisfies us in deep ways and fills us with joy. This communion, let us come to the table that the Lord has prepared. Let us come with joy to taste and see the goodness of our Lord. Let us smack our lips and say “Ah”, and leave satisfied and refreshed. Thanks be to God. Amen. — Robert Norris
Anthem Meditation: “I Am Not Afraid”
“What Are the Moments that Shape Our Lives?” There are moments that change us. That quickly — one moment we are one person, the next, we are a different person. There are moments in history that change this country, change our world, change us as a person. Pearl Harbor, was one such moment. Perhaps the assassination of President John Kennedy was another. My first such world changing event was the Challenger accident. We were all stunned in disbelief and as witness to that moment, it changed me. More recently were the events of September 11th when the world stopped in that moment and when the world breathed again, it had been changed. But there are other life-changing moments for us all. That moment when we say, “I do.” The sound of your baby’s first crying breath — these moments also change us. We live our lives from moment to moment, from hour to hour, and day to day. How many moments have we missed or wasted or let slip away? What do we do with 24 hours? Truth be told, some days, getting out of bed is an accomplishment. We busy ourselves with work. We eat. We sleep. We love and laugh and sometimes cry. But what do we do with 24 hours? What did Christ do with 24 hours? What Jesus did in those moments and hours has altered history and changed lives in ways we cannot begin to comprehend. The change continues to progress toward the completion of the Kingdom. And we are called to bear witness. We are called to share in the process of change. We are called to In the emptiness of silence when the world has turned away; build the Kingdom. And we are united in Beneath the weight of sorrow when I can no longer pray; purpose and direction because God took a In the wilderness of worry, in the desert of despair; In the never-ending darkness when it seems that no one cares, moment to change the world. Amen. I am not afraid, I am not alone. You hold me in Your hands and will not let me go. Holy Father, Though the waters rise and though the winds may blow, Guide me on this journey. Give me the courI will not be afraid, for I am not alone. age to take these moments that you have When there are no words of comfort that can stem the flow of tears; given and build your Kingdom. Change the world inside of me so that I can be an effecWhen I’m stranded at the center of a rising tide of fear; When there is no path before me, when my feet have lost their way, tive tool to change the world around me. I remember You are with me and I am not afraid! May all things be done for your glory and for I am not afraid, I am not alone. your purpose. Amen. You hold me in Your hands and will not let me go. — Robert Norris Though the waters rise and though the winds may blow, I will not be afraid, for I am not alone. — Pamela Martin
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Hymn Meditation: “Jesus, Thou Joy of Loving Heart” click on title to listen Jesus, thou joy of loving hearts, Thou fount of life, thou light of all, From the best bliss that earth imparts We turn, unfilled, to heed thy call. Thy truth unchanged hath ever stood; Thou savest those that on thee call; To them that seek thee thou art good, To them that find thee, all in all. We taste thee, O thou living bread, And long to feast upon thee still; We drink of thee, the fountain-head, And thirst our souls from thee to fill. Our restless spirits yearn for thee, Where’er our changeful lot is cast, Glad when thy gracious smile we see, Blest when our faith can hold thee fast. O Jesus, ever with us stay; Make all our moments calm and bright. O chase the night of sin away; Shed o’er the world thy holy light.
This song is another of the fine hymn texts that originated during the Middle Ages. It is thought to be written by the monk Bernard of Clairvaux-- one of the most prominent religious leaders of his day. An important part of the medieval church was the role of the monks and their monasteries. Since these churchmen were among the few who could read and write, their institutions became powerful influences in shaping the religious and cultural development of western civilization. This hymn is based on a devotional poem of prayer that contained over 40 stanzas. A number of hymns have been translated from portions of this larger work, including the well known hymn, "Jesus, the very Thought of Thee." This hymn was translated by Ray Palmer, an American pastor and poet. —”Amazing Grace” Ken W. Osbeck
— 12 cent. Latin; trans. Ray Palmer
Communion Meditation: “Come Share the Lord” click on title to listen Some hymns seem to flow immediately from the author’s pen, while others require months of gestation. The latter is the case with “Come, Share the Lord,” by Bryan Jeffery Leech (b. 1931), who wrote both text and music. The composer is a native of Buckhurst Hill, Essex, England, who moved to the United States in 1955. His communion hymn, “Come, Share the Lord,” has become not only his most frequently used hymn, but also a favorite hymn during the Lord’s Supper. Mr. Leech provides us with a background on his struggle to compose the text of this hymn: “In the autumn of 1982, I made an inner resolve to write a communion anthem and promptly forgot about it. During Christmas with my family in England, I invented a melody at the piano, but my mind was barren of any lyric ideas. “One hot summer day, while visiting a musician friend in Simi Valley, Calif., I played the setting and asked him to react to it. After repeating it, he thought a moment and then said, ‘It’s obvious: Holy Communion.’ I went home and within an hour the words were complete. In the anthem arrangement by Roland Tabell it has become my most popular song to date.”
4 In reflecting on the text, the author’s theology of communion unfolds. Sharing the Lord’s Supper is a response to the “burning in our hearts” for the love of Christ who “makes us one.” In the stanzas that follow we find that this is an open table where “No one is a stranger” and “everyone belongs.” Furthermore, this is a table where we “find... forgiveness” and “we in turn forgive all wrongs” The author places this celebration in the context of the postResurrection appearances of Christ with his followers. The second stanza begins with a reflection on passages like Luke 24:13-27 (the appearance of Christ on the road to Emmaus) and the multiple post-Resurrection appearances in John 20 and 21: “He joins us here, he breaks the bread/ the Lord who pours the cup is risen from the dead.” This stanza takes the relationship of those gathered at the table a step further. This is not only a table where there are no strangers and “everyone belongs;” in the sharing of communion, “We are now a family of which the Lord is head.” Bryan Jeffrey Leech received his education at The London Bible College in England, and at Barrington College in Massachusetts and North Park Seminary in Chicago. He was ordained in 1959 in the Evangelical Covenant denomination, and We gather here in Jesus name has served pastorates in Massachusetts, New His love is burning in our hearts like living flame Jersey and California.
For thru the loving Son the Father makes us one Come take the bread Come drink the wine Come share the Lord.
Mr. Leech is pastor emeritus at First Covenant Church in Oakland, Calif. He has composed over 500 songs, hymns, anthems and cantaNo one is a stranger here everyone belongs tas. He was co-editor for the evangelical colFinding our forgiveness here we in turn forgive all wrongs lection, Hymns for the Family of God, and He joins us here He breaks the bread author of the book, Lift My Spirits Lord: Prayers The Lord who pours the cup is risen from the dead of a Struggling Christian. He is also the creaThe one we love the most is now our gracious host tor of the lyrics, books and musical scores for Come take the bread Come drink the wine several biblically based musical plays, and Come share the Lord. has written two books for children. We are now a family of which the Lord is Head The author succeeds beautifully in comThough unseen he meets us here in the breaking of the bread municating a sense of cosmic time that surWe'll gather soon where angels sing rounds all who share this meal. In this hymn We'll see the glory of our Lord and coming King we recall the post-Resurrection meals as a Now we anticipate the feast for which we wait biblical witness of the past; we share the Come take the bread Come drink the wine meal with Christ in our midst in the present; Come share the Lord. finally, “we anticipate the feast for which we — Bryan Leech wait” in the future. The fullness of communion comes for those who understand that at the moment of this meal, time—past, present and future—collapses into that single moment. —-Dr. Michael Hawn, Perkins School of Theology
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A Study of Art for the Lenten Season: Artwork Inspired by the Final Days of Christ “Pilate Washing His Hands� by Mattia Preti
Although Mattia Preti (1613-1699) spent much of his life elsewhere, he is traditionally associated with the city of Naples. He extended the reputation of Neapolitan painting throughout Italy and internationally. Originally from Calabria in southern Italy, Preti went to Rome around 1630, sharing a room with his brother Gregorio who had arrived about two years earlier. Gregorio may have been Mattia's principal teacher, although they both also studied at the Accademia di San Luca. While in Rome during the 1630s and 1640s, Preti achieved his first success. His easel paintings, particularly his early ones, are painted in the style of Caravaggio. His mature style, which reached its epitome in Naples from 1653 to 1660, is intensely dramatic, uniting realism and expressive grandeur and theatricality of Venetian artists. In 1661 Preti went to the island of Malta, where he remained for the rest of his life. While receiving most of the island's church commissions, he also worked for patrons from across Europe. Preti's contributions to the late Baroque style in Naples greatly inspired later painters. The popularity and success of the Baroque style was encouraged by the Roman Catholic Church, which had decided at the time of the Council of Trent, in response to the Protestant Reformation, that the arts should communicate religious themes in direct and emotional involvement. The aristocracy also saw the dramatic style of Baroque architecture and art as a means of impressing visitors and expressing triumphant power and control.
7 In the Baroque style, this painting is “busy” with a background full of architecture, and “theatrical” as the scene plays out before its audience. The drama is emphasized by the use of light and shadow. The central character is Pilate and there seems to be a spot light shinning on him. He stares directly at the audience and seems to ask “What would you have me do?” The forward, right side of the painting seems almost serene. Pilate is passive and calm. And elderly soldier nonchalantly leans against the dais. Two serving boys attend Pilate, one holding a basin, and the other holding a water pitcher. Pilate washes his hands, refusing to take any blame for the farce of a trial that has played out before him. Nevertheless, he willingly sends an innocent man to his death. (This act of hand washing lies in stark contrast to the foot washing administered by Christ only a few hours earlier — an act of selfishness verses and act of selflessness.)
The shadowy background tells a very different story. The serene scene is broken as your attention is moved to the angry mob, soldiers binding Christ and leading him away with a rope around his neck, like an animal being sent to slaughter. The cross is raised before Jesus, taunting him with what is about to happen to him. This part of the “Theater” in this painting is dark and dirty and “loud” with images. The eyes return to Pilate and his quiet stare, oblivious to the scene playing out before him. His face is turned away. He ignores the sounds, and like Lady McBeth, tries to wash the unseen blood from his hands.
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A Study of Art for the Lenten Season: Artwork Inspired by the Final Days of Christ “Christ Mocked by a Soldier” by Carl Bloch, Carl Heinrich Bloch (May 23, 1834 – February 22, 1890) was a Danish painter. He was born in Copenhagen and studied at the Royal Danish Academy of Art (Det Kongelige Danske Kunstakademi) there. Bloch's parents wanted their son to enter a respectable profession - an officer in the Navy. This, however, was not what Carl wanted. His only interest was drawing and painting, and he was consumed by the idea of becoming an artist. He went to Italy to study art, passing through the Netherlands, where he became acquainted with the work of Rembrandt, which became a major influence on him. Carl Bloch met his beloved wife, Alma Trepka, in Rome, where he married her in May 1868. They had a very happy and prosperous life together until her early death in January 1886. The sorrow over losing his wife weighed heavily on Bloch, and being left alone with their eight children after her death was very difficult for him. His early work featured rural scenes from everyday life. From 1859 to 1866, Bloch lived in Italy, and this period was important for the development of his historical style. He was commissioned to produce 23 paintings for the Chapel at Frederiksborg Palace. These were all scenes from the life of Christ which have become very popular as illustrations. The originals, painted between 1865 and 1879, are still at Frederiksborg Palace. Carl Bloch died of cancer on February 22, 1890. His death came as "an abrupt blow for Nordic art" according to an article by Sophus Michaelis. Michaelis stated that "Denmark has lost the artist that indisputably was the greatest among the living." (from Wikipedia)
13 When I first came across this painting, I thought, “This can’t be a painting; it must be a photograph!” The details are simply amazing and captivating. The scene is set simply — just two characters. The background is dark and shadowy, isolating these two characters as the drama of the scene unfolds. The soldier screams and taunts Christ. He is seen with a cruel snarl. If you listen carefully, you can hear the belittling words — words to humiliate a “would-be-king”: “So you think you’re the Messiah? Where is your God now? Do you see this stick? I will show you just how human you are, holy man! How do like that bloody crown, king of the Jews? Look at me when I’m talking to you, Hebrew dog!”
But Christ’s attention is elsewhere. And you realize there is a third character in the scene. And I am standing, looking into the eyes of the Savior. The Man of Sorrows silently, tenderly acknowledges my presence in the scene. “This is for you. Remember me. I forgive you.”
To mock your reign, O dearest Lord, They made a crown of thorns; Set you with taunts along the road From which no one returns. They could not know, as we do now, How glorious is that crown; That thorns would flower upon your brow, Your sorrows heal our own. In mock acclaim, O gracious Lord, They snatched a purple cloak; Your passion turned, for all they cared, Into a soldier’s joke. They could not know, as we do now, That though we merit blame,
You will your robe of mercy throw Around our naked shame. A sceptered reed, O patient Lord, They thrust into your hand, And acted out their grim charade To its appointed end. They could not know, as we do now, Though empires rise and fall, Your kingdom shall not cease to grow Till love embraces all.
— Fred Pratt Green, 1972
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Sunday, April 9 Palm Sunday/Passion Sunday Matthew 27:1-26
Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the governor’s headquarters, and they gathered the whole cohort around him. They stripped him and put a scarlet robe on him, and after twisting some thorns into a crown, they put it on his head. They put a reed in his right hand and knelt before him and mocked him, saying, “Hail, King of the Jews!” They spat on him, and took the reed and struck him on the head. After mocking him, they stripped him of the robe and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him away to crucify him. As they went out, they came upon a man from Cyrene named Simon; they compelled this man to carry his cross. And when they came to a place called Golgotha (which means Place of a Skull), they offered him wine to drink, mixed with gall; but when he tasted it, he would not drink it. And when they had crucified him, they divided his clothes among themselves by casting lots; then they sat down there and kept watch over him. Over his head they put the charge against him, which read, “This is Jesus, the King of the Jews.” Then two bandits were crucified with him, one on his right and one on his left. Those who passed by derided him, shaking their heads and saying, “You who would destroy the temple and build it in three days, save yourself! If you are the Son of God, come down from the cross.” In the same way the chief priests also, along with the scribes and elders, were mocking him, saying, “He saved others; he cannot save himself. He is the King of Israel; let him come down from the cross now, and we will believe in him. He trusts in God; let God deliver him now, if he wants to; for he said, ‘I am God’s Son.’” The bandits who were crucified with him also taunted him in the same way. From noon on, darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon. And about three o’clock Jesus cried with a loud voice, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” that is, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” When some of the bystanders heard it, they said, “This man is calling for Elijah.” At once one of them ran and got a sponge, filled it with sour wine, put it on a stick, and gave it to him to drink. But the others said, “Wait, let us see whether Elijah will come to save him.” Then Jesus cried again with a loud voice and breathed his last. At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. The earth shook, and the rocks were split. The tombs also were opened, and many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised. After his resurrection they came out of the tombs and entered the holy city and appeared to many. Now when the centurion and those with him, who were keeping watch over Jesus, saw the earthquake and what took place, they were terrified and said, “Truly this man was God’s Son!” Many women were also there, looking on from a distance; they had followed Jesus from Galilee and had provided for him. Among them were Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of the sons of Zebedee. When it was evening, there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who was also a disciple of Jesus. He went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus; then Pilate ordered it to be given to him. So Joseph took the body and wrapped it in a clean linen cloth and laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn in the rock. He then rolled a great stone to the door of the tomb and went away. Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were there, sitting opposite the tomb.
“Palm Sunday”
It was a good day. A day that we had all been waiting for. A day when the King was finally proclaimed for who he really was — not just acknowledge by a few close friends, but acknowledge by the crowds of Jerusalem who had heard the name of “Jesus” and had heard all the things he had done. They wanted him to take the throne and bring them freedom. The donkey was ready for him, the people were waiting to see him. The palm branches were cut and already waiving in anxious anticipation for his arrival. For some, the palm branches were simply not enough. They removed their cloaks and tossed them on the path, ready for the muddy, dusty, footprints of the donkey — but not just any donkey. This donkey carried a King. It carried all of their hopes. Hope is a powerful thing and those newly-stained cloaks would again be worn with the greatest honor — a badge of hope and faith, a sign of redemption and salvation. But Christ is very rarely who we expect him to be. He very rarely behaves the way we expect him to. His ways are not our ways — the
15 foolishness of God is wiser than the wisdom of humanity. Is there any doubt that he could have easily toppled the government and established a Kingdom right then and there? But his path took a different direction. He could have changed that city, but he chose to change the world for all eternity. He traded in the throne for a cross; he traded the palm branches for a whip and a rod; he traded the crown for thorns; he traded chanting hosannas for a ringing hammer and nails. And I am forever grateful for that choice. So I will lift my voice and cry “Holy is the Lord! Blessed is the One who comes in the name of the Lord. My Redeemer has come! Hosanna! Hallelujah! Amen! —Robert Norris
“Triumphal Entry” by Liz Lemon Swindel
Hymn Meditation: “Hosanna, Loud Hosanna” click on title to listen
The Gospel of Mark tells us that on this day people cut branches and spread them and their cloaks in Jesus' path as he entered Jerusalem, making a highway for Hosanna, loud hosanna, the Messiah. They shouted, "Hosanna! Blessed is the one who comes The little children sang, in the name of the Lord!" As a teenager I thought the triumphal entry was the most excit- Through pillared court and temple The lovely anthem rang. ing story in the Gospel narratives, more wonderful than the angels' To Jesus, who had blessed them singing at Jesus' birth or the dove's descent at his baptism. I viewed Close folded to his breast, those affirmations of Jesus' messianic role as somehow external to The children sang their praises, him. The angels and the dove were given, but Jesus earned those The simplest and the best. hosannas. They proved that he had done his job well. From Olivet they followed Following the spontaneous parade of celebration, the Gospel Mid an exultant crowd, of Mark tells us that Jesus "went into the temple; and when he had The victor palm branch waving, looked around at eve- And chanting clear and loud. rything, ... he went out The Lord of earth and heaven to Bethany with the Rode on in lowly state, Nor scorned that little children twelve. Should on his bidding wait. This verse seems to imply that the crowd's "Hosanna in the highest!" That ancient song we sing, acclaim was just an- For Christ is our Redeemer, other piece of Jesus' The Lord of heaven our King. job. Now that I am O may we ever praise him older, I have learned With heart and life and voice, that he was right and And in his blissful presence that keeping our at- Eternally rejoice! — Jeannette Threlfall tention on the kingdom rather than on
16 the crowd is the most Christ-like -- and one of the most demanding -- of the spiritual disciplines. —Phyllis A. Tickle (Tennessee, U.S.A.) From Upper Room April 13, 2003 Prayer: Giver of all grace, fix our hearts not on the crowd's acclaim but on doing your most beautiful and eternal will. Amen.
Anthem Meditation: “Crucified” click on title to listen “Christ had offered for all time a single sacrifice for our
sins. -Hebrews 10:12 WHEN I opened the door to the church, I saw that the sanctuary was lighted by candles and there was a funereal black drape on the cross. A few worshipers wearing somber expressions sat quietly in their seats. I slid into a seat in the back so I could make a quick exit if I found the service too upsetting. I had never been to a Good Friday worship service. I did not like thinking about the Crucifixion. I had been content to focus on the joy of Easter Sunday, skipping over the events of Good Friday because they made me feel uncomfortable. But as I matured in my faith, I realized that embracing the reality of Crucifixion, William Morris Good Friday would help me more fully appreciate the gift of Easter Sunday. So there I was in a dimly lit church, Crucified on a tree of His own making. listening to the Cru- Crucified by the ones He came to save. cifixion story from Crucified while His mother’s heart was breaking, the Gospel of Mark. Jesus Christ, the Son of God was crucified. At the end of the In a world that He created, reading we were To His people lost in sin, reminded that Christ Jesus came, a tiny baby made his incredible Born to die, our souls to win. sacrifice so that It was planned from the beginning: Jesus Christ, the great I AM, each one of us Would Himself die to redeem us, might have eternal The Good Shepherd is the Lamb. life. In that somber setting, the reality of Crucified on a tree of His own making. what Christ had Crucified by the ones He came to save. Crucified while His mother’s heart was breaking, done suddenly beJesus Christ, the Son of God was crucified. came real and personal for me. I left To the cross our sins He carried, the church with a There alone to bleed and die. firmer hold on my As His friends looked on in silence, faith and a deeper “it is finished” was His cry. He has purchased our redemption. resolve to move Satan’s power He has defied. closer to the One Son of God and Son of Mary crucified. — Susan Bentall Boersma, 2011 “Crucifixion” window, Sir Edward Burne-Jones who loves me more than I deserve.
17 — Vicki Hines (Tennessee, U.S.A.) Upper Room, April 14, 2006 Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus Christ, thank you for the gift of eternal life that was bought with your blood. In your name we pray. Amen.
Hymn Meditation: “O Sacred Head Now Wounded” click on title to listen “And when they had plaited a crown of thorns, they put it upon his head, and a reed in his right hand; and they bowed the knee before him, and mocked him, saying, ’Hail, King of the Jews!’ And they spit upon him, and took the rred, and smote him on the head.” Matt. 27:29-30 It is difficult to join our fellow believers each Lenten sason in the singing of this passion hymn without being moved almost to tears. For more than 800 years these worshipful lines from the heart of a devoted medieval monk have portrayed for parishioners a memorable view of the suffering Savior. “O Sacred Head” was part of the final portion of O sacred Head, now wounded, a lengthy poem that ad- With grief and shame weighed down, Now scornfully surrounded dressed the various parts With thorns, thine only crown: of Christ’s body as he suf- How pale thou art with anguish, fered on the cross. The With sore abuse and scorn! seven sections of the po- How does that visage languish em considered his feet, Which once was bright as morn! knees, hands, side, What thou, my Lord, has suffered Detail from “Christ and the Rich Young Ruler” Heinrich Hoffman, 1889 breast, heart, and head. Was all for sinners' gain; The stanzas of the hymn Mine, mine was the transgression, were translated into Ger- But thine the deadly pain. man in the 17th century and from German into English in the Lo, here I fall, my Savior! 'Tis I deserve thy place; 19th century. God has preserved this exceptional hymn, which Look on me with thy favor, has led Christians throughout the centuries to more ardent Vouchsafe to me thy grace. worship of his Son. What language shall I borrow This melody by Hans L. Hassler was used as the theme for To thank thee, dearest friend, Bach’s St. Matthew’s Passion, and is known as the PASSION For this thy dying sorrow, CHORALE. It has been adopted as one of the most moving Thy pity without end? hymns for Holy week ever since Bach Passion premiered in O make me thine forever; And should I fainting be, 1729. — Kenneth W. Osbeck, “Amazing Grace Lord, let me never, never Outlive my love for thee. —German Chorale
Hymn Meditation: “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” click on title to listen “Carrying His own cross, He went out to the place of the skull. Here they crucified Him.” John 19:17,18
18 While prepareing for a communion service in 1707, Isaac Watts wrote this deeply moving and very personal expression of gratitude for the amazing love that the death of Christ on the cross revealed. The hymn was originally titled, “Crucifixion to the World by the Cross Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast, of Christ.” The noted theologian Matthew Arnold called this the Save in the death of Christ, my God; greatest hymn in the english language. The unique thought All the vain things that charm me most, presented by Watts in these lines certainly must have pointed the I sacrifice them to his blood. 18th century Christians to a view of the dying Savior in a vivid and See, from his head, his hands, his feet, memorable way that led them to a deeper worship experience, Sorrow and love flow mingled down. even as it does for us today. Did e'er such love and sorrow meet, When I survey the wondrous cross On which the Prince of Glory died; My richest gain I count but loss, And pour contempt on all my pride.
Or thorns compose so rich a crown.
Were the whole realm of nature mine, That were an offering far too small; Love so amazing, so divine, Demands my soul, my life, my all.
— Isaac Watts
How could they understand that He loved them enough to allow Himself be taken, scourged, and killed? How could they know that His death was for them? Yet with three simple words, "It is finished," the door to salvation was opened and His love was forever etched on the hearts of the believers. “It is Finished”, Liz Lemon Swindle, artist The sky is dark; the sun refuses to look upon the suffering of its Creator. The lightning strikes under an angry sky. The wind is whipping through the grass, but the breeze brings no comfort to the sweaty and bloody brow. The thorns are sharp and prominent on his bowed head. Signs of his beating and abuse are visible on his shoulders. His lips are still and faintly blue as the life blood leaves them. He has spoken his final words: “It is finished. Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.” And he breathed his last. It is finished. His task was completed. He showed us how to live. He taught us how to love. He showed us the consequences and benefits of choosing a higher way — a better way — a more difficult way. He even showed us how to die. And by that death, we are redeemed, sanctified. By that death, we are heirs of the Kingdom that Christ calls us to build. We are brothers and sisters to the very Son of God. It is finished. His task was completed. His final step was to bring us Hope of the resurrection. His task was over, but our has just begun. —RN
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Sunday, April 16 Resurrection Sunday Matthew 27:62-28:15
The next day, that is, after the day of Preparation, the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered before Pilate and said, “Sir, we remember what that impostor said while he was still alive, ‘After three days I will rise again.’ Therefore command the tomb to be made secure until the third day; otherwise his disciples may go and steal him away, and tell the people, ‘He has been raised from the dead,’ and the last deception would be worse than the first.” Pilate said to them, “You have a guard of soldiers; go, make it as secure as you can.” So they went with the guard and made the tomb secure by sealing the stone. 28 After the sabbath, as the first day of the week was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. And suddenly there was a great earthquake; for an angel of the Lord, descending from heaven, came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow. For fear of him the guards shook and became like dead men. But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid; I know that you are looking for Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for he has been raised, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples, ‘He has been raised from the dead, and indeed he is going ahead of you to Galilee; there you will see him.’ This is my message for you.” So they left the tomb quickly with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. Suddenly Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” And they came to him, took hold of his feet, and worshiped him. Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.” While they were going, some of the guard went into the city and told the chief priests everything that had happened. After the priests had assembled with the elders, they devised a plan to give a large sum of money to the soldiers, telling them, “You must say, ‘His disciples came by night and stole him away while we were asleep.’ 14 If this comes to the governor’s ears, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble.” So they took the money and did as they were directed. And this story is still told among title to listen the Jews to this day.
“Women at the Tomb” Fra Angelico, 1441
Hymn Meditation: “Jesus Christ is Risen Today” click on
I am the First and the Last, I am the Living One; I was dead, and behold I am alive for ever and ever!” Revelation 1:17-18 What a glorious truth to ponder — Jesus is not the “Great I WAS” but rather the “Great I AM!” He is not only a historical fact but a present-day, living reality. The whole system of Christianity rests upon the
20 truth that Jesus Christ rose from the grave and is now seated at the Father’s right hand. “Christ the Lord is Risen Today” has been one of the church’s most popular Easter hymns since it was first written by Charles Wesley just one year after his Aldersgate experience. It was written for the first service in the first Wesleyan Chapel in London in 1738. Charles Wesley wrote over 6,500 hymns. It has been said that the hymns of Charles Wesley clothed Christ in flesh and blood and gave converts a belief they could easily grasp, embrace with personal faith, and if necessary, even die for. The power of the resurrection makes it possible to live joyfully today, regardless of life’s circumstances.
Jesus Christ is risen today, Alleluia! Our triumphant holy day, Alleluia! Who did once upon the cross, Alleluia! Suffer to redeem our loss. Alleluia! Hymns of praise then let us sing, Alleluia! Unto Christ, our heavenly King, Alleluia! Who endured the cross and grave, Alleluia! Sinners to redeem and save. Alleluia! But the pains which he endured, Alleluia! Our salvation have procured. Alleluia! Now above the sky he’s King, Alleluia! Where the angels ever sing. Alleluia!
“Peter and John Running to the Tomb” by Eugene Burnard, 1898
Anthem Meditation: “This Is the Day” click on title to listen The Hope of a New Day
“I wait for the Lord, my soul waits.”—Psalm 130:5
Passing through a long, dark place, a place of great uncertainty and upheaval, I sit in the big green chair Sing we to our God above, Alleluia! by the window. Wrapped in Mother’s afghan, I began Praise eternal as God’s love. Alleluia! to sense that somewhere inside of me a sunrise is waitPraise our God, ye heavenly host, Alleluia! ing to happen. I poFather, Son, and Holy Ghost. Alleluia! This is the day the Lord has made, —Lyra Davidica, and Charles Wesley sition myself so that and I will be exceeding glad! my line of vision is This is the day the Lord has made, eastward. And I wait. I wait expectantly, knowing that the and I will sing my Maker’s praise. Father of all sunrises will not fail me. As the first long-fingered This is the day the Lord has made, rays of pink reach over the horizon to nudge away the and I will rejoice and give God praise! night, I begin to catch a new vision of what my life can be. Who is like unto our God the Lord And I reach for it without yet knowing its shape. Suddenly, strong and mighty? oranges and golds blaze forth. And there it is—the sun! A Who is like unto our God who reigns new day! The child in me jumps up and down, shouting, above in glorious splendor? “Yes! Yes! I am ready for the morning!” You are the Rose of Sharon, Watch a sunrise; it can bridge your way to a new day! the Lover of my soul. By Marilyn Morgan Helleberg, Guidepost Devotions You are my heart’s Desire; My soul implores me to exalt your holy name. Your name is music unto my ears; And I must sing of the great love you have shown to me because my heart will not be still. —Mark Hayes based on Psalm 118
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I know that my Redeemer liveth, And that He on earth again shall stand. I know, yes, I know that my Redeemer liveth, And on earth again shall stand. Though death destroys this body of mine; Yet in my flesh shall I see God. I know that my Redeemer liveth, And that He on earth again shall stand. For Christ is arisen, risen from the dead; The first fruits of them that sleep. “He Is Not Here”, Walter Rane
I know that my Redeemer liveth, And that He on earth again shall stand. I know, yes, I know that my Redeemer liveth, And that I too shall live.
Anthem Meditation: “I Know That My Redeemer Liveth” click on title to listen
—Lee Dengler, 2003
For some, Easter will be a great day, spent surrounded by family and friends. But for others, it will be a sad day, because Easter is a reminder of a loved one who has died and is now desperately missed. Death seems so cruel, so harsh, and so final. That is what the disciples were feeling when they saw their Lord, whom they had left everything to follow, hanging on the cross. They were devastated. Death had crushed them. But if they would have gone back in their memories, they would have recalled an important event and statement Jesus had made. They would have remembered Jesus standing at the tomb of his close friend Lazarus. They would have remembered that Jesus did something completely unexpected: He wept (see John 11:35). Jesus wept, because it broke His heart. But standing there at Lazarus' tomb, Jesus also delivered these hope-filled words: "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live" (John 11:25). The resurrection of Jesus brought life in the face of death; it brought hope in the face of despair. The Hope of Easter is what we celebrate. And in that hope, we can firmly say: “I know that my Redeemer lives!”
“Thomas”, Carl Bloch, c. 1870
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Hymn Meditation: “The Day of Resurrection” click on title to listen
This hymn from the early eighth century is one of the oldest expressions found in most hymnals. Its origin is rooted in the liturgy of the Greek Orthodox Church. It was written by one of the famous monks of that church, John of Damascus, c. 676780. The celebration of Easter has always been a spectacle of ecclesiastical pomp in the Greek Orthodox Church. Even today, as a vital part of the ceremony, the worshipers bury a cross under the high altar on The day of resurrection! Good Friday and dramatically resurrect it with shouts of “Christ is Earth, tell it out abroad; risen!” on Easter Sunday. With this announcement begins a time of The passover of gladness, joyous celebration. Torches are lit, bells and trumpets peel. The passover of God. This hymn was translated by John M. Neale, one of the leading From death to life eternal, translators of ancient hymns. Is was one of the most learned hymFrom earth unto the sky, nologists and had a fluent knowledge of twenty languages. Our Christ hath brought us over, With hymns of victory. Determine to make this Easter a spiritual highpoint celebration in your life and in the lives of your family members. Our hearts be pure from evil, That we may see aright The Lord in rays eternal Of resurrection light; And listening to his accents, click on title to listen May hear, so calm and plain, His own "All hail!" and, hearing, May raise the victor strain.
Hymn Meditation: “Christ is Alive”
Now let the heavens be joyful! Let earth the song begin! Let the round world keep triumph, And all that is therein! Let all things seen and unseen Their notes in gladness blend, For Christ the Lord hath risen, Our joy that hath no end.
The Cross that Transforms Us”
I will have to admit that I am completely fascinated with crosses. I think that they are truly beautiful. Over the years, I have collected quite a number of crosses. One of my best friends really hates crosses and cannot imagine — John of Damascus, 8th Century why such a brutal and hateful thing has come to represent a loving and merciful Savior. He would much prefer using the symbol of a fish, or the trinity rings, or a chalice, etc… And we have had many debates on the topic over the years. Jesus Christ came, not only to save the world, but to transform it. Water was changed to wine. The sick and blind were transformed into whole and healthy people. Even the dead were transformed into the living. Christ challenged the way we see creation. He challenged the way we though about widows and orphans and those trapped in poverty. He transformed fishermen into preachers, and transformed skeptics into true believers. You might even say that he was in the very business of transforming lives. And he is still in that business today. So, the God who transforms also has the power to transform this
Christ is alive! Let Christians sing. The cross stands empty to the sky. Let streets and homes with praises ring. Love, drowned in death, shall never die. Christ is alive! No longer bound to distant years in Palestine, but saving, healing, here and now, and touching every place and time. In every insult, rift, and war where color, scorn or wealth divide, Christ suffers still, yet loves the more, and lives, where even hope has died. Women and men, in age and youth, can feel the Spirit, hear the call, and find the way, the life, the truth, revealed in Jesus, freed for all. Christ is alive, and comes to bring good news to this and every age, till earth and sky and ocean ring with joy, with justice, love, and praise.
—Brian Wren, 1968
image of hate and shame into an image of mercy, love, and grace — the cross. “What you meant for evil, God intended for good.” Genesis 50:20 If God has the power to transform the cross, then what can he do with a life? I believe the cross is such a thing of beauty because it was once so very ugly, but touched by Loving Hands and transformed. And when we are touched by those same hands, we are never the same. We too are transformed. —RN
“Mary and the Gardener” by Jacob Cornelisz van Oostanen, 1507 In the foreground on this small wooden panel, one of the artist's earliest dated works, Jacob Cornelisz. van Oostsanen shows a scene from the story of the Resurrection as recounted in St John's Gospel. Mary Magdalene meets the risen Christ and mistakes him for a gardener. When she recognizes him, she throws herself at his feet. Christ then speaks to her the words the artist has painted in artful Gothic lettering on the trim of his garment: 'Touch me not, Mary, for I am not yet ascended to my Father' (Maria noli me tangere nondum enim ascendi ad patrem). In the middle and far distance, integrated in a finely-detailed landscape, the painter shows four more episodes grouped around the central motif; the two Marys at the empty tomb, Jesus meeting the three Marys, his encounter with the pilgrims on the road to Emmaus, and the meal at Emmaus. In the artist's time and later, it was quite usual to group together a series of events on one single panel, as it was indeed to show Mary as an elegantly-dressed early-sixteenth-century lady.
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Sunday, April 23 Second Sunday of Easter “Commissioning Disciples” Matthew 28:16-20
Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
Hymn Meditation: “Alleluia! Sing to Jesus” click on title to listen
Alleluia! Sing to Jesus; His the scepter, his the throne; Alleluia! His the triumph, His the victory alone! Written for Ascension Day, this hymn was originally en- Hark! The songs of peaceful Zion titled "Redemption by the Precious Blood". It was inspired Thunder like a mighty flood: “Jesus out of every nation by the "Song to Christ" found in Revelation 5:9: Has redeemed us by his blood.” “…You were slain and have redeemed us to God by Alleluia! Not as orphans your blood out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation…” Are we left in sorrow now; Though it may seem odd, the death of Jesus (coupled Alleluia! He is near us; Faith believes nor questions how. with His resurrection) was the most important aspect of Though the cloud from sight received him, his life. Many biographers make only brief mention of the When the forty days were o’er death of their subject, but the Gospel writers make the Shall our hearts forget his promise: events of Jesus' last days—His trial, torture and crucifix“I am with you evermore”? ion—a major part of their account. And for His followers, Alleluia! Bread of angels, Christians, Jesus gave them a "supper" that they would Here on earth our food, our stay; be sure to remember His death: This is my body which is Alleluia! Here the sinful flee to you for you…This cup is the new covenant in My blood which From day to day. is poured out for many…1 Corinthians 11:24,25) Intercessor, friend of sinners, What is the reason for this emphasis on Jesus’ death? Earth’s redeemer, hear our plea Let an illustration from James Denney answer that ques- Where the songs of all the sinless tion: Suppose two men are standing on a pier that juts Sweep across the crystal sea. out into the ocean. Presently one to his friend, ‘I love you Alleluia! King eternal, very much and to prove it I am going to jump off this pier Lord omnipotent we own; and drown myself. ‘ He does so and next day, the paAlleluia! Born of Mary, pers tell the story of this strange, senseless suicide. Let us Earth you footstool, heaven your throne. imagine, however, that these two men are there again As within the veil you enter, Robed in flesh, our great high priest; and one inadvertently trips and falls into the water. His Here on earth both priest and victim in the friend, though a poor swimmer, plunges to his rescue Eucharistic feast. and manages to push him to a ladder of safety. But in — William C. Dix, 1866 saving his friend, he himself sinks and loses his life. Next day, the papers will tell the story of a hero who gave his
3 life to save his friend. The Bible says that The wages of sin (that is, yours and mine) is death--a spiritual death that separates a person from God. But the Bible also says that God made Him (Jesus) who had no sin to be sin for us. That is spiritual life—forever! Believe it: Rejoice in it: Live gratefully because of it! William Dix wrote "Alleluia! Sing to Jesus" as a communion hymn for Ascension Sunday. This hymn was originally called "Redemption through the Precious Blood" and was inspired by Revelation 5:9, "And they sang a new song, saying, You are worthy . . . for you were slain, and have redeemed us to God by your blood." Our hymns proclaims "His the triumph, His the victory alone." "Jesus . . . hath redeemed us by His blood." "Though the cloud from sight received Him," sings of Christ's ascension. Even as He assured us he would not leave us as orphans, this hymn also reminds us of His faithful promise, "I am with you evermore." —from “Center for Church Music” website
Hymn Meditation: “Go to the World” click on title to listen
These words that conclude the gospel of Matthew show us how big the kingdom of God really is. The Lord sends his people everywhere in the world, and he promises to be with them always, until the end of time. The immensity of that time and space is beyond our ability to comprehend. But we certainly can try to understand the way our own lives fit into the bigness of God's kingdom. No matter who we are, when we have lived, or what we can accomplish, each of us has a role to play in expanding the Lord's kingdom here on earth. Sometimes we think that being faithful to the Lord's Great Commission in these verses means leaving where we are and going somewhere else. This may be true for some people. But while some are called to go to faraway places, most of us are called to penetrate our current locations with the good news of Go to the world! Go into all the earth. the kingdom. The entire world is a mission field, and Go preach the cross where Christ renews life’s worth, we don't need to go very far to find it. It can be as Baptizing as the sign of our rebirth. close as the house next door, the seats occupied by Alleluia. Alleluia. people you travel with on the bus or subway each Go to the World! Go into every place. morning, or the locker down the hall. The point is, Go live the word of God’s redeeming grace. the Great Commission confirms that we all have a Go seek God’s presence in each time and space. place to go. For some of us, that place may very Alleluia. Alleluia. well be the place we already are. Go to the world! Go struggle, bless, abd pray; The nights of tears give way to joyous day. Prayer As servant church, you follow Christ’s own way. Alleluia. Alleluia. Lord, I know you can use me no matter where I am. Go to the world! Go as the ones I send, Thank you for giving me so many opportunities to For I am with you till the age shall end, share your love with others. Help me to make the When all the hosts of glory cry “Amen!” most of them. Amen. Alleluia. Alleluia. — Sylvia G. Dunstan, 1985
—Peter Hoytema
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Anthem Meditation: “Pacem” click on title to listen “ Give Us Peace”
Blessed are the peacemakers. Are you a peace maker or a peace lover? Perhaps you are wondering, “What’s the difference?” A “peacemaker” is someone who works for peace, even when it is unpopular and costly. On the other hand, a “peace lover” is someone who wants, “peace at any price”. Peacemakers look beyond the presenting conflict. They want to know what is causing the war or fight. They are looking for ways to achieve lasting friendship and harmony. Often, this involves addressing issues of injustice and oppression. In contrast, peace lovers don’t like confrontation. They don’t want to address awkward or difficult issues. They especially don’t like feeling uncomfortable or challenging others. The risk for them in pursuing real peace is that it might be costly. They might even get involved with people and feel their pain. They may get hurt in the process of seeking lasting solutions. They prefer to cover over problems and hope that they will go away. James describes “peacemakers” as being like farmers who are sowing seed for a harvest. This requires time and patience. But the outcome is a “harvest of righteousness”. This describes a life of peace and justice for both individuals and society. The Hebrew word for this is “shalom”. It is more than the absence of conflict. It is a deep seated connection and harmony between people, the creation and the Dona nobis pacem Et in terra pax hominibus bonae voluntatis Creator. The prophet Isaiah describes it as a setting in which, “the wolf and the lamb will feed togethGive us peace er” (Isaiah 65:25) And on earth peace to all humankind. The theologian, William Barclay is a preacher and writer of some note in the Church of Scotland. In part, here is what he said about this beatitude: "The blessing is on the peace-makers not necessarily on the peace-lovers. It very often happens that if a person loves peace in the wrong way, he succeeds in making trouble and not peace. We may, for instance, allow a threatening and dangerous situation to develop and our defense is that for peace's sake we do not want to take any action. There is many a person who thinks he is loving peace, when in fact he is piling up trouble for the future, because he refuses to face the situation and to take the action which the situation demands. The peace which the bible calls blessed does not come from the evasion of issues; it comes from facing them, dealing with them and conquering them. What this beatitude demands is not the passive acceptance of things because we are afraid of the trouble of doing anything about them, but the active facing of things and the making of peace even when the way to peace is through struggle" (Daily Bible Study, Matthew, I, Westminster Press). “Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.”
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Hymn Meditation: “Ye Servants of God, Your Master Proclaim” "Ye Servants of God, Your Master Proclaim" was originally written not as a hymn of praise but as encouragement for believers facing persecution. The hymn first appeared in 1744 in a small collection of thirty-three hymns titled Hymns for Times of Trouble and Persecution and was captioned "To be sung in tumult." That year was a time of great tension and confusion in England and a time of bitter persecution for those new people called "Methodists," who were strangely ac-
Ye servants of God, your Master proclaim, and publish abroad his wonderful name; the name all-victorious of Jesus extol, his kingdom is glorious and rules over all. God ruleth on high, almighty to save, and still he is nigh, his presence we have; the great congregation his triumph shall sing, ascribing salvation to Jesus, our King. "Salvation to God, who sits on the throne!" Let all cry aloud and honor the Son; the praises of Jesus the angels proclaim, fall down on their faces and worship the Lamb.
Then let us adore and give him his right, all glory and power, all wisdom and might; all honor and blessing with angels above, and thanks never ceasing and infinite love. — Charles Wesley cused of being Roman Catholics in disguise, working undercover for the pope. Mobs broke up Methodist services and often hurled bricks, cabbages, and eggs at the preachers. Undaunted, the Wesleys maintained a noble spirit, producing the 1744 collection to buoy the spirit of their followers. Psalm 93:1-4 and Revelation 7:11-12 are the biblical basis for this hymn. The LORD is king, he is robed in majesty; the LORD is robed, he is girded with strength. He has established the world; it shall never be moved; your throne is established from of old; you are from everlasting. 3 The floods have lifted up, O LORD, the floods have lifted up their voice; the floods lift up their roaring. More majestic than the thunders of mighty waters, more majestic than the waves[a] of the sea, majestic on high is the LORD! And all the angels stood around the throne and around the elders and the four living creatures, and they fell on their faces before the throne and worshiped God, 12 singing, “Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might be to our God forever and ever! Amen.”