SLOW DOWN

When have you seen this warning sign in your life?  Maybe it was a spouse commenting on your driving?  Perhaps it was a teacher encouraging you to double-check your work?  Maybe it is a friend reminding you to not rush through your life?

We get a similar sign as we head into Holy Week.  All four of the gospels s-l-o-w down when Jesus arrives in Jerusalem on Palm Sunday.  Perhaps we are invited to do the same?  Maybe we are challenged to do the same? 

It is both an invitation and challenge!  Time is one of the most precious commodities we have and no one is creating more of it! 

What happens when we slow down?  We have the opportunity to notice more, appreciate more, and to be more thoughtful and careful.  And yet, a slower pace can also leave important work unfinished, create anxiety by feeling like we are falling further behind, or frustrate those around us who think we should be moving quicker. 

 So, let’s try taking it slow…slow.  One week.  One day.  One moment. 

Part of taking our time with Holy Week is not rushing to the joyous conclusion.  Settle in with the desperate hope of the crowds on Palm Sunday to be rescued from oppression, abused, and persecution.  Linger around the table of the last supper.  Try to stay awake and pray in the garden.  Stand before the cross and look Jesus in the eyes. 

What do you notice about these familiar stories?  What do you feel?  How do these events change you in your bones and soul? 

It is interesting that Jesus doesn’t ask his closest followers to defend him, save him, or “do” anything, except to keep him company in the garden.  Can we slow ourselves enough to do just that? 

Peace be with you,

Pastor Jim