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Pentecost/Memorial Day a Clashing of Important Days
This Sunday is Pentecost, one of my favorite Holy Days in the church: a day when we celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit and the birthday of the Christian Church. And it is Memorial Day Weekend, a time when remember the lives lost in war and give thanks for the sacrifices made for freedom and peace of our country.
I feel a conflict in these two very important days falling together on weekend. Recognizing that in some way shape or form, worship will focus perhaps on one more than the other. I want to acknowledge that life is like this. That we often have to make choices about what we will focus on and where to put our energy.
Sometimes I wish life allowed us to focus in on that one important thing. Jesus even says this to Martha when she is complaining about Mary (her sister) sitting at the feet of Jesus while there is work to do. "Martha, Martha you are distracted and worried about many things, but there is only one thing." (Luke 10:41). It is a good reminder to me that in the midst of many things that the one true thing is the love of God. No matter what, we have to make choices about where we put our focus, will we dare to slow down enough and see the importance of reflection on the way God is showing up in our lives, through the Holy Spirit and through the lives people have given in love for the sake of others.
I give thanks for all of this- for the invitation to focus on the love of God, for the gift of the Holy Spirit and for all that has been given for each of us.
Blessings,
Pastor Joanna
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