Another Sunday
Another Sunday
For some today is another Sunday, for others it is Easter Sunday. An old Christian tradition leaves weeks of Lent and enters a new reality. From Christmas, Emmanuel god with us to Easter, he is risen. A child is born and that child as a man dies on a cross. During Lent we reflect, during Easter we rejoice. We are adults that know, understand and over our lifetimes propose acts of peace. To honor Easter is offering peace to one another.
My first confession in preparation for my First Communion before Easter was in what appeared to me a dark closet. There was a squeaky kneeler that with my childhood weight could turn on a light so those in line would know I was there. I remember a green light, so my mind went to Christmas. We were prepared to share our sins, but not really old enough to have much to say. I felt pressure to speak. I liked getting up and down to hear the squeak of the wood, plus the desire to escape was immense. I wondered about the light turning on and off outside this darkness.
The screen slid open, I said the usual: fought with my brothers. I didn't think it was sinful, just sharing my life. I luckily escaped the guilt because before the "cock crowed again" a disagreement would be inevitable. But knowing that this excercise may bring me closer to God I pondered the benefits. As an adult my understanding for reconciliation with God has been more rewarding with the challenges of human relations more complicated. The man behind the screen now thankfully may be approached face to face in my old christian tradition. I shake his hand and am on my way. I know what to say.
Disagreements with others have greater consequences as adults. The notion of bombing an ancient civilization back to the Stone Age is unnecessary. The Abrahamic religions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam are considered cousins. All revealed and blessed with the spirit of one God. Two currently excercise government states of religion, the middle cousin's previous historical attempts of a governing meant the beginning of the end. Christianity has attempted, but following "go out to all the world and share the good news" with military action is a failure. Misinterpreting sacred stories and each other have unknown consequences with disastrous expressions. Reasonable adults can make peace before the children are harmed, again.
Another Sunday can be an Easter Sunday when we offer peace to the other.
Wina