On the Fourth Sunday in Lent, March 10th, perhaps because of the time change, nine worshippers gathered with Rev. Lee Spice as she continued the Lenten series “Facing the Cross: Finding the Holy in Hard Times.” _Using the scripture reading John 2:13-22, Lee entitled the message “Turning Tables.” _Jesus is in the Temple and becomes angry when he sees what the temple authorities are allowing so he overturns the money changers tables. Lee asked, “What is the issue with being angry?” _and reiterated that anger is a natural emotion that can lead to creativity when and if it leads to holy fury. So, what causes us to rage, the fury to rise within us that can lead to positive change?
The Fifth Sunday in Lent, March 17th, also known as St. Patrick’s Day, saw eighteen worshippers gather with Rev. Lee Spice as she continued the Lenten series “Facing the Cross: Finding the Holy in Hard Times.” _Entitling her message “Grain of Wheat” _and using the scripture John 12:20-33, Lee spoke of the abundance from when the seed is planted. The seed has within it everything that causes transformation when it is planted. The sacrifice of transformation leads to holiness and abundant harvest. Lee left us to reflect upon what do we need to sacrifice in our own lives so we can receive abundance? Also, may our sacrifices be holy. John 12:20-33 is also a foreshadowing of Jesus’ _death and resurrection in this gospel.
Speaking of Jesus’ _death and resurrection, this Sunday, March 24th, we enter what is called Holy Week with Palm Sunday as we remember Jesus entering Jerusalem. Then on Maundy Thursday, March 27th, we gather at and with Okotoks United at 7 p.m. to remember the Last Supper Jesus had with his followers. On Good Friday, March 28th, we once again gather at and with Okotoks United at 10:45 to remember Jesus’ _death. The Easter sunrise service at the Big Rock will be at 7 a.m. as we gather with Okotoks United and United Church in the Valley to celebrate Jesus’ _resurrection to be followed by our own Easter Sunday service at 9 a.m. where communion will be a part of the service.
– – – by Marie Wedderburn