Advent Devotions
All are invited as we Make Room this Advent season.
The Rose of Calvary
“I love the Rose of Calvary, God’s gift of hope, God’s gift of grace.” This is the opening line of the Easter cantata that will be performed on Sunday morning. Written and composed by James Martin, “The Rose of Calvary” tells the story of Jesus’ passion and resurrection, employing the creative imagery of flowers and gardens. Our post-Easter worship series, “Return to the Garden” was inspired by Martin’s creative work.
“The image of a sacred flower, a divine rose, from heaven’s own garden blooming in the shadows of our world is a portrait of hope and comfort. When translated into music, it becomes a song that speaks to our deepest needs for restoration and redemption. It sings to us of gardens lost to sin and despair. It reveals to us a lonely garden where ancient olive trees stand silent witness to the suffering of the savior. It sings of a garden meant for death suddenly springing to life in a shower of joyful alleluias. It is God’s tender love song reminding us all that we are children of the garden. Finally, at its heart, it is the music of one truly perfect Rose, who, choosing grace, died for his beloved thorns.”
Introduction to “The Rose of Calvary,” James Martin
The variety of flower species that we call “roses” were not likely present in 1st century Israel & Palestine. But “rose” is quickly identifiable as a treasured blossom, offering those in its presence undeniable beauty and pleasing fragrance. Remember, Prince of Peace, the portion of the Body of Christ to which we belong, was planted in Roseville and our church grounds fittingly feature multiple rose bushes.
Some translations of scripture refer to “the rose of Sharon,” a phrase Martin draws upon in his chorale. “I am a rose of Sharon, a lily of the valleys,” describes the Beloved in the 2nd chapter of the Song of Songs. It’s no surprise that those who celebrate Jesus’ love and redemption would cling to such imagery.
The Chancel Choir and our Music Ministry Team have been busy rehearsing this special chorale since late February. A number of “seasonal singers” have returned to bolster the ranks of voices. What a gift their efforts will be for our community. I hope you’ll be in the sanctuary or tuned in online to hear this beautiful story.
May God’s peace find you today. -Pastor Peter
Let us pray… God of the Garden, as the Chancel Choir prepares to share ‘The Rose of Calvary,’ may your spirit guide each note, filling our hearts with a message of hope, grace, and love. Amen.
Previously…
Morning Glory
In the quiet hours before dawn, as the world awakens to the promise of a new day, the Morning Glory unfurls its delicate petals, greeting the sun with radiant beauty. Like the Morning Glory, our lives are a testament to the transformative power of faith in a post-resurrection world.
Empowering Spirit
‘“The Lord has risen indeed,’” (Luke 24:34) the couple heard when they returned from Emmaus, “and he appeared to Simon!” Then the couple shared with the disciples their own encounter with Jesus, how their hearts burned within them.
And yet in the very next verse when Jesus suddenly appeared to all of them again saying, “Peace be with you,” they were “startled and terrified.” He offered proof: “Look at my hands and feet….touch me and see…” And Luke’s gospel tells us that “in their joy they were disbelieving and still wondering.” (Luke 24:36)
Why Are You Looking Up?
Millions of people will be looking up today as a total solar eclipse crosses North America, passing over Mexico, the United States, and Canada. This phenomenon, which happens when the moon passes between the sun and earth, completely blocking the face of the sun, will cause the sky to darken as if it were dawn or dusk.
New Beginnings
As the vibrant colors of spring will soon burst forth and the fragrance of flowers begins to fill the air, we are reminded of the beauty of new life and the promise of renewal. In this season of resurrection, we’ll be initiating a spiritual awakening, exploring the theme of “Return to the Garden” in our post-Easter worship series.