Beloved of God,

The first Easter morning was quiet. The disciples were unsure of what to do next. They were scared and grieving. Then, the women came to their friend's homes with the good news, "Christ is risen!" And they celebrated at home. Not in the way they celebrated previously, and not in the way they would celebrate some day. 

Perhaps our Easter celebration will be something like that first one this year. A little more quiet. With a little more fear and grief infused in our worship. Certainly not like it has been, and not like it will be again one day. 

But we can still be faithful. We can still celebrate the love of God in Christ Jesus. A love that is stronger than death and fear and grief. Jesus doesn't need our white paraments or brightly colored flowers, our joyful exuberance or our most perfect worship in order to rise from the dead. 

So, come as you are to your screen. Bring your fear and grief and disappointment. Wear your Easter best or your pajamas. Sip your coffee or your mimosa. Sing in harmony or loudly off key. No matter how we show up or how we worship, Jesus comes to us in resurrected glory with grace and joy and life. 

Peace, 

Pastor Sarah