Lifted Up
In most of our cluster churches, the crucifixes have been covered with purple cloth. As I explained last Sunday, we do cover up to remind ourselves of the humanity of Jesus. His last miracle before His resurrection is breathing the Spirit of life into Lazarus. Lazarus, come out and be lifted up. You are healed. There is no stench of death. As the face cloth is removed his eyes he sees his savior and Lord, Jesus. His sins forgiven, his soul is lifted up.
I have watched many people lifted up as they leave the confessional. As they lifted their eyes up to Jesus on the cross, they witnessed his healing mercy and forgiveness. As their souls were lifted up from the darkness of sin the Spirit of Life entered, and they receive courage and strength to continue. There are only a few days remaining until Lent. If you have stumbled there is still time to begin again. Turn toward Jesus, lift up your eyes to His and again ask for forgiveness.
May the Lord bless you in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen