We've just finished conducting the memorial service for Nancy Bowden, a life-long member of St. John's whose services for baptism, first communion, confirmation, marriage, and now burial were all held in our sanctuary.
There was something special about her funeral being held on Maundy Thursday. The altar area has already been prepared for tonight's worship, a large black veil nearly covering the triptych, the remnants of Palm Sunday still in the chancel -- a pitcher, towel, robe of purple cloth, and crown of thorns. Though we celebrated Nancy's life, the space presented a powerful reminder that a funeral service is about far more than us. It's the church's strongest and most profound statement that, because of Christ's death and resurrection, nothing can separate us from the love of God. Neither life nor death nor things present nor things to come. Nothing can separate us from God's love.
Tonight we re-tell the story of Jesus' last meal, the washing of his disciples' feet, and his betrayal by Judas. The mood is stark, especially as we end with the dramatic stripping of the altar amidst total silence and darkness. At the end, only darkness remains.
On Good Friday we gather in darkness, stunned as the final candle -- the only light that remains -- is removed from the sanctuary.
Thankfully you know the rest of the story. Easter dawns, the tomb is empty, Christ is risen! Whew!
But might I ask a favor? There are lots of folks in our world and in our community who don't know the rest of the story. Sure, they might have heard it, but their lives continue to be wrapped in darkness and despair and grief and betrayal. For whatever reason, it's hard for them to wrap their heads around "new life" and "hope" and an "empty tomb." It's difficult for them to embrace this belief that nothing can separate us from God's love.
Will you pray for them? ... and if given the opportunity, will you invite them to hear and experience the rest of the story? It may well be the greatest gift you've ever given.
Thank you for who you are. And thanks be to God for the privilege of sharing in this journey with you.
