April 11, 2025

“In - Or Next To?”

This Sunday is Palm Sunday, the day we remember Jesus’s coming into Jerusalem. It was a pretty big deal. There was a parade. I remember, as a child, every year come September, we wanted to go to the Solanco Fair Parade. The parade was held on the opening night of the fair. There were bands and businesses of all kinds represented. Clubs and community groups would take part. There were fire engines and police cars, giant trucks and tractors of every kind - new and old. There were riders on horses, on motorcycles, and troupes of dancers and baton twirlers. At the end of the parade, always the calliope - a strange and wonderful whistling organ on wheels. It was such a big deal that people would “stake their claim,” or “claim their spot” even days in advance, setting out lawn chairs and blankets. Of course, the parade was largely the same year to year, but we still wanted to go. Why? Well, so many friends and family were there. And there was the chance to get candy and other goodies that were handed out by groups in the parade. Year after year, we would go. For many, the Manheim Farm Show Parade works the same way. If you’ve seen it once, you pretty much know what to expect, but still, you’ve got to go!

Growing up, the only thing better than watching the parade was getting to be in it for one reason or another. Personally, I got in the parade on different occasions as part of a band or on a float. While you didn’t get any of the candy or the goodies, somehow, it was better to be in it, with everybody watching you. Growing up, it was never a question of “Would we go?”  Instead, it was “In it? Or next to it - watching it?” 

This Sunday is Palm Sunday, the Sunday we remember Jesus coming into Jerusalem. There was a parade. It was a pretty big deal. My question for you is, “Where will you be? In it - or next to it?”  As we remember Jesus, will you be in it - part of the praise? Or will you be on the sidelines, watching it go by? There to witness? Or will you decide not to show up? You know what I am hoping - that you will be there in the midst of it - with a heart to praise God.

But - much like the Solanco Fair Parade was part of the opening celebration - meaning there was more to come; Jesus coming into Jerusalem was just the beginning of the most remarkable week ever. I want to encourage you to “put out your chair now” for the whole week.

The events begin with Palm Sunday, celebrating Jesus's triumphant entry. There will be lots of songs with Hosanna and palm fronds in both services.

Wednesday, we have the last of our Lenten Supper/Study evenings looking at the Love of God.

On Thursday, Holy Thursday, at 7:00 PM, we will gather in the Fellowship Hall for a special service that helps to set the stage for the rest of the week. We will witness Jesus and the Disciples gather to celebrate Passover. And we, in turn, will share together in Holy Communion.

On Friday, Good Friday, at 7:00 PM, we will gather in the Sanctuary for a service that will show us Jesus being arrested, tried, sentenced, crucified, dying, and being buried. It is a somber service with songs, candles, and a message about the cross.

On Saturday, Silent Saturday, the day that Jesus lay in the grave, there is a Prayer Vigil at the church, in the Sanctuary from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. People are encouraged to sign up for half-hour slots to pray for the church and whatever else the Holy Spirit puts in your heart. (If you miss the sign-up, or plans change, just come.)  There is no service on Saturday, just people praying.

On Sunday, Easter Sunday, the day begins in the Prayer Garden with Sunrise Service at 6:30 AM. This is a brief service, with brass instruments, singing, and praising God for the resurrection of Jesus.

Then, there is Easter Breakfast served in the fellowship hall around 7:00 AM.

“Regular” Worship and Sunday School are held at the normal times – 8:00 AM worship, 9:15 AM Sunday School, 10:30 Worship. BUT - it isn’t normal worship. Jesus is Risen!!  So it is a worship party!

It’s a busy week, but honestly, it is one of the best weeks of the year. And though, in some ways, it “is the same” as last year, each year, it is new. And we need to be reminded. And we are blessed to participate. So, set out your chair now. Do what you have to do. Come, be a part of it all: the celebration, the somber, and the bigger celebration. You may not get candy, but you will receive something far greater. Come and see!

Grace, Mercy, and Peace,

Pastor Blaine