Words about the WORD - Doug Thomas, Trinity Episcopal

It must have been a fearsome day, the mourning of His death; as He who is without a flaw, the Author of all breath, submitted to the curse of man whose shrill and evil call to be like god, and worship self, still echoed from the fall; and would not tolerate the Light revealing truth to all.

So it was fixed in human hearts to silence God’s own Word; proclaiming man the better part, as pride of life was stirred.

While laughter filled the devil’s lair at that circus of despair, crowds of people gathered ‘round to mock the Son and say, “Come down; and prove to us that you’re divine. Like changing water into wine, it surely is a simple trick if you would make this god-game stick.

But through those dark and dreadful hours the Voice of God was silent.

We crucified the Son of God and mocked His holy name, as He endured without protest; accepted all our blame. How could it be one such as He, the Light of all creation; would pay the price of sacrifice for humankind’s salvation?

For three long days His followers stayed hidden in a room, believing all their hopes and dreams lay buried in a tomb. For three long days the world pursued its pleasures without thought of what a costly price was paid, not knowing what was bought. For three long days the Voice of God was silent on the earth; as heaven’s hosts expectantly awaited a new birth.

How often do we make such choice responding to God’s act? When it appears He’s far away what do we take as fact to guide decisions we must make about the things we do? If we would count ourselves as His what course should we pursue? How sad it is that often times we find a place to hide, or go on with our daily lives; do not in Him abide.

But God is gracious, strong, and true; did not forsake His plan: so on a morning bright with joy He raised the Son of Man. See how the Holy Father’s love rewards His firstborn Son; that from the wicked womb of death He has the victory won. And then, ascending to God’s throne, He takes the Father’s hand to rule with all authority; the mighty Son of Man.

From the scorn of men to His Father’s praise; from the depths of sin to a new life raised; from the haunts of hell to the heights of glory; the Word to tell, eternal story.

Have you ever thought about eternal life? I don’t mean to live on and on the same way as we do now; with future slipping into past, and present always out of grasp. No… I mean to live fully and forever in the moment; where once-and-always walk hand-in-hand. So it is with God.

I know it’s hard to picture, just like God Himself. For He is the Eternal: so that, in His presence, we, who are His, always are; known before all-time began and counted by His Word as friend. So He is always with us.

Once…: someday…; at a time that no one knows, but already accomplished by the will of God, and… just a moment away for us: the Son of Man will come again; enfolding all within His love, redeeming every sin.

How comforting to know for sure the wonder of His grace; that by His blood we can be pure, and see Him face-to-face. That when He comes as Lord of Lords in grandeur and in fame: then all the world will bow before the splendor of His name. We’ll have no case nor cause to fear, for we are truly reckoned dear; will stand before our Father’s throne as children finally coming home.