On a gorgeous, sunny afternoon this Lent, I was afforded about 20 minutes to sit in the Rector’s Garden here at the church. I rarely take time like this just to sit. A dear friend here at the church encouraged me to go enjoy God’s creation. I did. The weather was perfect: not cold and not hot, just right. Goldilocks would have loved it. The breeze was gentle, and the newly budding plants danced a bit for me as the sunlight crept through the branches of the trees. I’m grateful for moments like these.
But inevitably what captured my attention in the garden were the names etched in stone of many loved ones who have gone before us to meet the Lord. Many of these names I have known over the years, and many I have not. What struck me though was the beauty of the garden, with spring and fresh life just around the corner, juxtaposed with the names of our faithful departed. There are signs of life and signs of death in the same space.
And this is true of all of our life and existence. We are surrounded by life and death all at the same time. Simone de Beauvoir stated that “From the hour you are born you begin to die” – a sobering thought indeed. And if this life is all there is, then this is a pitiful and sad existence. All would be vain. If the Resurrection of Christ is not true, then “we are of all people most to be pitied. But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead”(1 Corinthians 15:19-20). This Holy Week we remember and celebrate the death, burial, and resurrection of our Lord. This gives us confidence and assurance that this life is not in vain. This life is precious in the sight of the Lord, and death has not the final word. Forgiveness, life, love, and everlasting peace are the budding fruits of Christ’s labor. May they blossom in our midst.
– Jay
If in Christ we have hope in this life only, we are of all people most to be pitied. But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep.
– 1 Corinthians 15:19-20