March 21, 2020

​21 March 2020

Messiah:

A group of our young adults met for “Festive Friday” last night. We checked in with each other. We sipped beverages, shared stories, and tried to lighten our collective anxiety by dishing the occasional slice of dark humor. Some ordered pizza, while others feasted on chips. Dogs and cats were invited too. No, there was no violation of social distancing. The Spirit was present.

The venue was “Zoom,” a web-based conferencing program that brings people together who can’t physically be together. Leveraged by large and small businesses alike, Zoom is available to anyone with a computer and a high-speed internet connection. Since Monday, Zoom has become more than a business tool; it’s a vital conduit of connection for people separated by virus and threat of virus. With a few keystrokes and adjustments to the camera on the computer, you’re linked with the important people in your life through real-time voice and video. You can even join by phone if you’re computer does not have video capability. Here’s the link: https://zoom.us. If you keep it basic, it’s free. (I am not being compensated by Zoom for endorsing their product.) Look for a tutorial coming soon to the Messiah webpage and Facebook group. 

In the dark hours after the crucifixion, the disciples have decisions to make. Scatter or stay connected. Some leave Jerusalem of course, too wounded to spend one more minute on a lost cause. But many stay connected, hunkered down in the space where Jesus hosted the Passover just a few nights before. These disciples have no concept of Resurrection at this point, but they understand that the hard stuff of life is a lighter load when it is carried together.

Stay connected, dear friends.

Peace,

Pastor Michael

Today’s Reading: Matthew 11:28-30