SNOW IN THE SPRING

Today is the day after Palm Sunday, the day that ushers in Holy Week. And yet, here in Indiana, we have snow again. The first snow of winter is usually beautifully fluffy and white and clean. The first snow of spring doesn’t offer the same enjoyment, however, at least not for me. But it is a reminder that this is God’s world, not mine. And Holy Week and Easter are God’s days, not mine. It’s not about white rabbits, chocolate candy, sweet ruffled dresses with large sashes, or shinny new shoes. It’s about the sacrifice of God himself, who walked and taught and healed here on earth in the form of Jesus the Christ. We, as a Christian nation, must turn our hearts to the Lord and praise His holy name for His gifts that brought salvation to us, through the grace, or gift, of God. The Bible tells us that God lives in the praises of His people. When we think of Palm Sunday, praise and worship sum up the day. Let us not forget the meaning of the Easter season this year, to sing His praises and tell of His love. Let us be faithful as God is faithful to us. Let us pray:

“Holy God, father of our Savior Jesus Christ, we lift up our hearts in love to you. Also, we raise our hands, for hearts are often unseen by others, but hands can be counted. We openly worship you as our God through the sacrifice of your son, Jesus. May your kingdom come and dwell in our lives so that Heaven may be experienced in our lives. For such a time as this, oh Father, we want to be counted as your people. Give us courage, hope, and blessed insight into the needs of your people and our blessed nation. Strengthen our resolve to be a free and democratic nation, always seeking the welfare of your people. Forgive us for our greed, selfishness, and lack of empathy for those around us. Pour out your love on us all like the gentle rain from heaven that watered our land all day yesterday. We love you, Lord, and we want to live honorable, Christ-like lives in service to you. “Heaven came down and glory filled” the world two-thousand years ago. May we all be touched by the breath of heaven once again, filling us with your Holy Spirit that we may carry you wherever we go. In the name of your son, our redeemer, Jesus, we pray. Amen”

Doris
Copyright 2009 Doris Gaines Rapp, Ph.D.
“God gives us stories that testify to his love. Let me tell you mine.”