Archive for April, 2009
What a glorious day!
Despite the wonderful Puget Sound weather, it’s a beautiful day in the history of humanity. Yes, despite the rain, it is glorious, because God in his awesomeness, came to earth to reconcile us to himself in the person of Jesus Christ. Despite the cruelty of humanity, he was triumphant in that he rose from the dead because death cannot hold him. Yes, the tomb is empty, and as the world then and does now, find this in amazement. But Jesus challenges us because we are not to be amazed, we are to believe. And, blessed are those of us living today, who believe without seeing the miracles!
Yes, Jesus blesses us that choose on our own, to believe in him and the One who sent him. Despite it not being the most pragmatic approach, we are to approach the risen Savior as like “children,” with a child like faith. I am so excited that Jesus has touched my soul well over 2000 years later and has begun this great work in me. This transformation of mind and body, to be configured to him, in service to my brothers and sisters in him.
“Rejoice and be glad, for this is the day that the Lord has made!”
He has Risen!
Jesus the Christ, the King of my heart.
Thank you my Lord.
April 12 2009 | inspiration | No Comments »
You know, I love tradition. Family traditions are something to cherish and are vital to the integrity of the family. We began our tradition of attending the Easter Vigil well over 20 years ago. There’s just something about waiting for that moment when something monumental is about to change your life forever.
This took on a whole different meaning for me when I made the decision at a Ministry Fair 5 years ago when I was invited to become an Altar server. I mean, I was forty-something but it was something I always wanted to do, even as far back as my childhood. But as a grown man, it felt kind of weird to be honest. But the gentleman who invited me, was much older than I, so who was I to say no due to age? Well, I am here to tell you, it’s changed my life in so many ways.
Last year, I was taken a bit deeper into this ministry by learning the role of master of ceremonies. It challenged me to grow in understanding and awareness of what was happening around me. As I served in this role during Holy Week in 2008, this year in 2009 was sort of a farewell tour. As I wrap up this formation year, I will be challenged to reflect on this year, but also lay down this ministry to take up another. Oh, I will serve when called to, but next year, the challenge will be to develop as a reader. I am excited to see where the Lord leads me.
So in reflection, the role of MC was great, and allowed me to grow in my relationship with my community and Our Lord. This Easter Vigil was a special moment for me, because I was able to celebrate the Rising of the Lord with the people I love so dearly. I praise God for his work began in me, and look forward to my continued configuration to Christ.
Happy Easter and May the Peace of Christ be with you all.
April 12 2009 | inspiration and liturgy | No Comments »
“They buried the Lord and sealed the tomb by rolling a large stone in front of it.
– They stationed soldiers there to guard it…”
We keep silence because our King is asleep….
“The Chief priests asked Pilate for a guard.
– They stationed soldiers there to guard it…”
God died in the flesh and all hell trembles in fear…
We wait in vigil for the coming of our Savior.
April 11 2009 | inspiration | No Comments »
“For the sake of his sorrowful passion, have mercy on us, and on the whole world..”
We just got home from the Good Friday Liturgy. I am particularly drawn to the Veneration of the Cross, which brings to mind so many mixed feelings inside me, about what Our Lord must have experienced that day. I feel mostly sorrow for at least this moment, because the Veneration lifts my mind to the victory Christ won at Calvary. The triumph over that horrible instrument of death-La Cruz-and the hope he gave to the world. I am so thankful for this gift because there is absolutely nothing I can say or do that makes me worthy of it. On my own, I am not worthy to be called a Christian. But only because of him, am I made worthy.
I was a bit sad because our Deacon Emeritus wasn’t present for the first time in the 4 years I’ve been going to this parish, and I missed him very much. This was where his gifts really shown forth. He loved this part liturgical year. But it was a great new experience for our newly ordained Deacon, and he did great!
That’s about it until the Easter Vigil, where I’ll be the MC. I continue my vigil now that the tomb has been sealed…
April 10 2009 | inspiration | No Comments »
In memory of Our Lord Jesus Christ and his passion and death,
“We praise you O Christ and we adore you, because by your Holy Cross, you have redeemed the world..”
1 Peter 2:21-24
- For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example that you should follow in his footsteps.“He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.” When he was insulted, he returned no insult; when he suffered, he did not threaten; instead, he handed himself over to the one who judges justly. He himself bore our sins in his body upon the cross, so that, free from sin, we might live for righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. For you had gone astray like sheep, but you have now returned to the shepherd and guardian of your souls.
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April 10 2009 | inspiration | No Comments »
I’ve been meaning to get over here and blog, but so many things are happening right now that it’s simply amazing. A lot of work, but it pales in comparison to the work of the Lord upon the cross. It’s about 1:30pm PST, and I want to blog at 3pm to honor the passing of Our Lord. Reflecting on his passion, the example he sets for us is a life long endeavor. But my experience with him in the Sacraments and in discerning my diaconate call has been life-giving.
I find myself doing things I’d never thought of. I find myself in a whole different place than when I first started, and I’m content with that for the moment.
I have much more ahead, but for now, all I want to do is focus on him.
Dear Jesus, thank you for the gift salvation and the life you give us nourished by the Eucharist. Help me always to follow you and imitate you in word and deed. Amen.
April 10 2009 | inspiration | 1 Comment »
Despite the wonderful Puget Sound weather, it’s a beautiful day in the history of humanity. Yes, despite the rain, it is glorious, because God in his awesomeness, came to earth to reconcile us to himself in the person of Jesus Christ. Despite the cruelty of humanity, he was triumphant in that he rose from the dead because death cannot hold him. Yes, the tomb is empty, and as the world then and does now, find this in amazement. But Jesus challenges us because we are not to be amazed, we are to believe. And, blessed are those of us living today, who believe without seeing the miracles!
