One year ago today (March 10, 2020), I created my eSword article much like I am today; little did we know then what we know now.  I had just canceled the Guatemalan mission trip, which in my mind was out of an abundance of caution about something called Coronavirus and the possibility of us infecting Guatemalans, or becoming infected on our trip.  We all remember that within two weeks of that article, the governor issued the stay-at-home order for Illinois, and we were unable to gather in-person at church.  
I have spoken many times about how hard this year has been, and it has. However, today I was out walking (without a coat!! I love spring) and thinking not of only what we have lost, but what we have gained. 

 

This all stemmed from a Zoom call I have monthly with a colleague group; I host a fresh start small group of “seasoned rectors” who have just taken new calls in the diocese.  My job is simple- coordinate time and place/Zoom, and offer a safe place to consecrate, support and encourage, and talk plans for rectors who have just begin their ministry in their new parishes.  We had done all of these things, and as our meeting was concluding, one of the priests reminded us that through it all this past year, God’s grace has been sufficient.  Was it hard? Yes. Is it still hard? Yes.  Is God still good and with us and giving us grace to get through it? Yes.  

This Sunday is the fourth Sunday in Lent, Laetare Sunday, when we wear the rose/pink vestments, and is translated as “to rejoice.”  A Sunday to rejoice right in the middle of Lent.  Today, think about all you might have gained this year.  Ask God to show you were God’s grace has been in your life, and show you the lessons that you are to take with you as we move closer to vaccines and a slow reopening of our lives.  Where has there been resurrection?  And remember to “rejoice in the Lord always,” even during Lent, at what the Lord has done for us.  See you in church, 
Jesse+