HOLY WEEK:

CONTRASTS in Now, Then and Forever

 

Within seven days…

you have  a penchant for

saying so much with so little, the

Strunk and White of Elemental Spirit,

You teach brevity and

economy of expression.

In seven days You

call forth a world.

You consider unacceptable things in seven.

In seven days, Holy Week,

we observe in efficient measures

the contrasts of our humanness.

 

Triumphal Entry where all sayers are, “Yes!”

set against the solitary question,

“REALLY? Not even one hour can you be awake with  me?”

On the heels of that incredible invitation you offered Lazarus to, “Rise Up!”

the welcome was astonishing… a crowd curious for another miracle and

all palm leaves and accolades.

Who knew the thrum of the throng would

quickly be followed by so quiet a party?

One loyal soul willing to help you haul

that craggy cross – and two felons.  Even with

them only one  followed you into a safer haven.

(We cannot forget the hopeful, weeping women.)

Grief and grace stand

side by side in this eight-day “Holy Week.”

On Friday we have lost You and

Sunday, You are ours, again.

Ours, then, now and forever.

The contrasts spill into this day.

In little, or in liturgy…

In ritual, or in resistance…

While I may forget to Name You, then, now and

forever, You lovingly name me.

©mary anne radmacher 2011