Danger and Doubt

   This morning my time is unhindered by appointments and there is the luxury, maybe even the danger, in having time for rabbit trails through the grasses of the internet. One of the Bible readings for this day comes from Matthew 28 which reads:

"But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay."

   Yes, the Resurrection Story, the Miracle of Easter.

   I thought about an older church that we had seen the other day in downtown Warrenton, GA. The First United Methodist Church.

   I wonder now as I sit here and look at the picture, how many people have sat there in years past, in the many Easter celebrations that have taken place in its sanctuary. How many people have rejoiced at the truths of that Day?

   But, I think also, of another group of people who have attended over the years, and will no doubt be there, 9 days from now. There will be folks who believe, but have been there so many times, that it is old hat and does not inspire anymore. There may also be those who go because it is a day to do so, but there is no belief there at all. There may be honest doubt, but there will also be a "let's get it over with" attitude with some.

   I read a piece this morning from the pen of Rachel Held Evans, a piece entitled "Holy Week for Doubters" which gives a slant on one side of an "Easter visitor". It is a good read for thought if anyone has time.

http://rachelheldevans.com/blog/holy-week-for-doubters

   No doubt there will be all kinds of folks in that old church in Middle Georgia next weekend, as there will be in ours, but I wonder, deep down in my heart and soul, on that day, will it be new again, or "old hat"?

   I remember an evening communion service in our church a few years back, a time when I sat in the quiet, listening, not able to sing at all, as a relatively new hymn's words washed over me. The magnitude of God's love and sacrifice made real in that Good Friday moment.

   That is what I pray for the folks up there in Warrenton and all people who gather to celebrate the truth of the Resurrection on Easter.

   There may be danger and doubt sitting there in the pews also, but God is able to get through all of that and wash us clean again.