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“Resurrection—Rebuilding”
Rev. Robyn Weaver
It was apparent that the front and side yards had been receiving tender loving
care. Debris had been cleared, bushes trimmed and new paths shaped to the side
and back yard. It had taken 18 months for trees to begin to show signs of life
after Katrina. It took as many months for birds to begin to return. Azaleas were
in bloom, and a new stone border had been set around the front steps.
The inside of the ‘shotgun’ style home was another story. The key project for
the week would be to pull out the old walls and floor in the kitchen and to
begin anew with tile, drywall , and paint.
While working, the home owner shared with the UMD students his story of
devastation and survival during the surge of the Gulf waters. They heard of
scattered family members and the slow return of a few neighbors . They learned
of illness physical and emotional from the storm. The water was one thing and
the aftermath another. They worked together rebuilding the center of the home,
sharing meals , dreams, and hope for the future. A lot more than physical
restoration happened.
At the same time healing and new insights for the soul took place for all
involved. Isn’t that what the resurrection is about? Jesus , who overcame death
and offers to us new life ,takes our old storm tossed hearts and lives and gives
back to us new ones. His spirit comes to comfort and listen to our challenges
and fears and then offers hope and praise for things new to come. We who thought
we could run the show alone discover that it is such a relief to turn matters
over to One who loves us and has conquered all ,for life’s sake. A new sense of
family opens up for us . And a deeper purpose for our lives becomes evident in
the call to work for a different Kingdom. One established by the Risen Lord.
The conversations will continue that started while working at Macks' house.
Seeds of faith were planted that will grow and flourish. The opportunity comes
to us yet again this Easter to believe and claim the promises and to live them
out in our lives. Alleluia!
“For God so loved the world that
he gave his only begotten Son that
Who so ever believes in Him shall
not perish but have life anew.”
John 3:16
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