As you read these words, I will be gathering with family members to remember and give thanks for the life of a dear aunt, who lived well for 91 years. Our gathering is called a "celebration of life" rather than a funeral, because "Ginny" lived life fully and with great gusto. When the service is over, we will bury her ashes next to her beloved "Stan" who died more than 15 years ago.
What is happening to me is a startling revelation that I am becoming an elder, both in my immediate family and in my community. So, I realize, I must take on the mantle of leadership - I become an elder.
One of the things I love about the Holy Week preceding Easter Day is that it is a time for the elders of our community to tell our sacred stories. During this week, we use ancient words with which we, people of Christian faith, recount the mighty acts of God.
We use words that tell of the power of God, words through which God's love for us has echoed throughout history. We pass along to the next generation the ever-unfolding story of God seeking humans and reaching out to us in love.
On Friday, I'm going to tell Ginny's story, the story of one of God's beloved children whom God welcomes home again. I'll proclaim that Easter mystery, Christ has died, Christ is risen, and Christ will come again - and this is Good News for us all. Alleluia.
