Holy Week

I was talking with my mom the other day about this week, Holy Week. I was sharing how different it seems from when I was younger. I feel as though so many churches have forgotten the significance of what this week means for us as Christians. So much more "pomp and circumstance" over Christmas but not much for this week. The most important and world changing week in the history of the world and it just seems to be celebrated as a regular week.

I've been looking back a lot lately on my childhood. I've been richly blessed as a Christian. I have been fortunate to learn, see and experience the religious practices, ceremonies and customs of several different Christian and Catholic churches. I remember learning the Stations of the Cross at St. Joseph's, the Advent wreath at East Side, the invitation to become a Christian after each service at the Baptist camp. Each church, each denomination, every service I've ever attended has carried with me, has changed me and shaped me into my unwavering faith I have today. Has everything always made sense, no. But looking back and putting the pieces of the puzzle (my life) together I understand so much more. I have a broader richer understanding of who Christ is and my relationship with Him.

Tonight I took our 3 children, Mark was at work, to the Last Supper play at our church, Koza Baptist. This was by far the most interesting, informative and captivating portrayal of the Last Supper I've ever seen. After the service was over we were walking out almost to the outer doors of the church and Seth turns to me and says...

"I want that Mom."

I reply, "You want what Seth?"

"I want that peace, that everlasting life!" His eyes were all red; he was fighting back tears. He was nervously shaking.

Trying not to overwhelm him, we talked for a moment. I encouraged him to go talk to Pastor Tim (our music minister). So we did. Seth accepted Christ as his Savior tonight. He looked so grown up talking privately with Pastor Tim. His outward appearance changed tonight. Riding in the car home he had a sense of purpose, of strength I've never seen in him. I'm overwhelmed ... with joy.

Why am I sharing all of this with you. It was all about the play. The play stirred something inside Seth's soul. It spoke to him. He's heard about Christ and God his whole life. But tonight it was different, it was for him. I know that we are called by God, but someone has to share the information about Christ with you. Tonight's play spoke to Seth in a way that nothing else had. I'm blessed, God had a reason for us to be in church tonight. I knew all week there was a reason I wanted to share Maundy Thursday services with my children. I wasn't sure why, but I knew it was more important this year. Maybe because they are getting older and can really understand the significance of this week. Or maybe because I too am longing for more in my walk with Him. I want my children to have what I have, a personal relationship with my God in Heaven, the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords, the Prince of Peace. I'm so glad I was obedient to God and went to services. Thank you Lord for making me a vessel for you.