NEWSLETTER: FINAL PUSH

FINAL PUSH

Dear brothers and sisters!

There are two factors that shape my newsletter article this month. On the one hand, we are at the beginning of April. At the same time, the celebration of the Resurrection of our LORD. Therefore, when we enter the time of April there are almost three more weeks ahead of us arriving at the time of Easter. So, our weeks can be compared to the final minute of any sport game regulated by time. First one that comes to my mind is Ice Hockey (I am sure you are shocked 😊). At the same time, it can be Super Bowl (or any football games), or a basketball tournament…  There is this moment when the win is very close, but there is need for the final push. Keep the defense line, keep pressing hard at the offense, not making fouls which might result in penalties in loosing people to the bench, or loosing points… So, final push.

First of all, we are in the process of ending Lent. This year we began our very special Evening services – services of Light. As the daylight time grows longer, we are blessed with a visual of keeping the sanctuary in a twilight while we sing “stay with us, LORD, for it is evening.” He, being the guiding light of our lives, leads us through the challenges which help Zion to mature.       

Then we will arrive at Holy Week, which begins with Palm Sunday. Many of you know how beautiful Zion looks during this Sunday- everyone is invited back to the Garden where God walks among us and talks to us in His Word. This “date” with God will be followed by Maundy Thursday – the celebration of the Lord’s Supper institution, when Christ is not only talking to us but also feeds us with Himself.    

Maundy Thursday opens the way to the victory of the Cross and Resurrection. There is a reason for St. Paul to exclaim: “we preach Christ crucified” (1 Corinthians 1:23) – Good Friday remembrance of Calvary lays the foundation for the Resurrection. These days in a close connection, making the final push of Lent particularly meaningful. It is not to us, but to Him be the glory (Psalm 115:1) – for we are nothing but the receivers of the benefits of His victory over death, sin, and the devil. Final push – let us get ready!