Signs of new life surround us: bulbs have sprouted and blossomed, the trees are beginning to bud, the sun shines more warmly on our skin. After a long, snowy winter, the arrival of spring is something we are grateful for. What a joyous time of year!
In a similar way, we also celebrate the new life at Payson Park Church. Here, as the season of Lent leads us to Easter morn, our worship themes move to the miracle of the resurrection as we marvel at the message of new life and healing found at the empty tomb. Christ is risen! God offers new life and hope to the world!
Of course, before those words flow from our lips we must move through the events of Holy Week together. By listening to the words of scripture portraying Judas’ betrayal on Palm Sunday and the passages describing the trial, execution, and death of Jesus on Good Friday, we face the reality that the one we call Savior and Lord was rejected by the world. It’s with that knowledge we contemplate how we, too, reject God’s presence in our lives. How is it we turn away from the love and grace of God? When do we choose to ignore the teachings of Jesus?
With the days of Lent still unfolding, these are questions that invite us to reflect upon our commitment and confess our failings so that we might become more loving, dedicated Christian men and women. That is why I hope you will consider attending the Sunday and special worship services in these upcoming weeks. This is a time we seek renewal and grace together, that by the light shining from the empty tomb we may truly live as God’s creation, proclaiming to the world, “God is alive! Love never ends!”
In hope and with love from,

The Reverend Lael Atkinson