Saturday, April 7, 2007

Holy Saturday - the day between


It's the day between things, for most Christians. The day between the solemn service ending in darkness and silence on Good Friday and the great joy and celebration of Easter morning. Here at Shepherd of the Valley we had our "Children's Easter Special" this morning - with crafts and games from around the world, all telling the story of Easter.

This evening is the Easter Vigil - a service that isn't "done big" in the Western US, at least not among the Lutherans I've known. I have a feeling that if we didn't have a weekly Saturday evening service, we wouldn't be having an Easter Vigil at all. So, it will be small and understated. We'll read 5 lessons from Scripture, to hear how God has loved and led his people throughout their history. We will pray, and sing hymns, and celebrate the Lord's Supper. And then we will end with an Alleluia! Finally! (I do miss the alleluias during Lent).

Tomorrow is THE BIG DAY - complete with an outside sunrise service at 6am, and jubilant services inside at 8, 9:30 and 11am. As I write there are youth next door in the kitchen making cinnamon rolls to serve tomorrow morning (yes, I am hoping to sample one this afternoon - you know, quality control).

It is my prayer that all might hear God's love and good news for them tonight and tomorrow. Christ is alive. Death doesn't win.

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