It happens every Lent. At at least one point or another someone says it. It finally occurred during midday eucharist this week. At one of the key moments where it is omitted, we got a full-throated and bold “Hallelu-!” I loved it. 

We avoid saying or singing this term of praise during Lent as a reflection of the penitence and sorrow of this season. We reflect on our failings and sin (still time to sign up for confession!), and lament the ways we fall short. 

We also hold off on “Hallelujah” as a way of building anticipation for Easter and the resurrection. Much like fasting from food can increase our gratitude for what has been provided for us to eat and drink, refraining for saying this word can build in us a deeper appreciation for the worship of God. Like shaking up a 2 liter bottle of Coke, Lent can cause our longing for God and our capacity to rejoice in Him to intensify. 

I took the near shouted “Hallelujahs” this past Wednesday as a sign that the desire to praise and to celebrate Easter is increasing in those, who shall remain nameless, who couldn’t restrain themselves. The Coke bottle is ready to burst. 

As we move through these final weeks of Lent, consider allowing your imagination to move toward Easter and the following season of Eastertide. What are you looking forward to? What will that day of resurrection celebration hold? How will you rejoice in Jesus and His victory? Allow the Spirit to build an anticipation in you for the coming season, as a reflection of a Spirit-inspired anticipation God’s new creation, the eternal Eastertide to come. If you need space for such imagining consider joining us on Saturday, March 23rd for our Parish Quiet Day. 

In anticipation, here is a reminder of Holy Week worship. We’ll have a handout included in next week's enews with prayers for each day of the week and service information as well. Be sure to invite others! 

• March 24th, Palm Sunday - 9am and 11am

• March 27th, Wednesday -12:30pm Midday Eucharist 

• March 28th, Maundy Thursday - 6:30pm

• March 28th, Good Friday - 7:00pm 

• March 31st, Resurrection Sunday - 9am and 11am 

Eagerly anticipating with you,

Peter+