SECOND EASTER

 by Judy Richardson 

March 30, 2021 

For the second year in a row Palm Sunday was celebrated in a parking lot at St Mark Presbyterian Church. We had to roll our windows down to hear the service. The cold March breezes were blocked by other cars around us. The radio broadcasting system was not working but the speakers were loud and true. We sang and we prayed silently that we will be able to enter our house of worship again soon. 

Spring is bursting everywhere. There are daffodils and the dogwoods are blooming. It seemed like they appeared suddenly. God’s world is beginning its seasonal decorating and joy is beginning to break out in our hearts. 

The COVID pandemic is killing fewer people in the US now as elderly and chronically ill people are getting their vaccinations. Unfortunately, other countries are not doing as well with vaccinations. We worry that variants will find their way back to our shores and undermine the effectiveness of our vaccines. 

Easter will mark 2 weeks since I received my second dose of the Pfizer vaccine. I am looking forward to spending time with my grandsons before they no longer appreciate a grandma hug. Hopefully vaccines will be available for them soon. 

This Easter we will celebrate in the Church parking lot. We will have virtual services available on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Easter. We are grateful for the generous work required to present these services. There will probably always be a place for virtual services and meetings, but in-person gathering- which we always took for granted-will be a blessed gift when it returns. Meanwhile, we will celebrate God’s sacrifice and enjoy the beauty of this wonderful season. 

God’s science of flowers amazes 

Chlorophyll in tune 

The crocus and daffodils 

Proudly display it 

But need no mention at all 

They still find their way 

God’s marching wonders to display 

As dazzled I stand breathless 

I humbly walk blind

 To God’s majesty unfurled 

I walk humbled as I seek 

Paths of righteousness 

God’s guidance to follow 

To preserve the beauty now 

So generations can receive God’s mercy & natures glory