Alternative Reading for Today: Walter Brueggemann
Today, in Mercy, we join Mary and the disciples as they deal with Christ’s death. No doubt, the range of emotions among them was as great as it would be among any group or family losing someone they dearly loved.
They had entered, with heart-wrenching drama, into a period of bereavement over the loss of Jesus. Doubt, hope, loss, fear, sadness and remembered joy vied for each of their hearts. They comforted one another and tried to understand each other’s handling of their terrible shared bereavement.
They did just what we all do as families, friends and communities when our beloved dies.
But ultimately, our particular bereavement belongs to us alone, woven from the many experiences we have had with the person who has died. These are personal and indescribable, as is the character of our pain and loss.
Do not be afraid of your bereavement. It is a gift of love.
Holy Saturday, like bereavement, is a time of infrangible silence. No matter how many “whys” we throw heavenward, no answer comes. It is a time to test what Love has meant to us and, even as it seems to leave us, how it will live in us.
As we pray today with the bereaved Mother and disciples, let us fold all our bereavements into their love. We already know the joyful end to the story, so let us pray today with honesty but also with unconquerable hope that we will live and love again.
Separately, I will send two poems today that I hope may help with your prayer.
Music: Farewell – Michael Hoppé
Renee,
I hope I get a chance to meet you someday and personally thank you for your reflections, art, poetry and music. They are truly a gift to me daily….
Carole
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Dear Carole, thank you! I look forward to that chance as well. Love and Easter Blessings, Renee
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Thank you Renee for today beautiful reflection and all you post. They are a prayerful way to go into day with Jesus. Nancy Lesutis
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Thanks, Nancy. A blessed Easter to you!❤️
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Renee, All I can offer is thanks for your mystical vocation. You revive us when we are down, and you have made the Triduum even deeper this year. How can we thank you ? Words are insufficient, prayers for you – to follow. Happy Easter! Blessings, Pat McD. XO
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Dear Pat, your beautiful gratitude blesses me deeply. Happy Easter to you and your dear family.❤️Renee
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