Reflections on Eastertide
The 50 days after Easter leading up to Pentecost are a time to embrace new life and new possibilities. This season reminds us that we are a people of resurrection, that we worship a God who makes all things new and for whom anything is possible.
While we are still waiting for Spring to arrive here in Minnesota, my social media feeds are full of images of blossoming flowers and baby animals from other parts of the world. Many of us are longing for the beauty of spring and the richness of green and growing things. Gardeners are not-so-patiently waiting for warmer weather so they can get their hands in the dirt. Given the delay in Spring’s arrival this year, it’s a good thing we have Eastertide to celebrate.
The 50 days after Easter leading up to Pentecost are a time to embrace new life and new possibilities. This season reminds us that we are a people of resurrection, that we worship a God who makes all things new and for whom anything is possible. Winters are long here. We need the hope and anticipatory excitement of Spring and all the literal growing things. Eastertide is the spiritual equivalent of Spring.
What makes your spirit sing? What yearns within you to be set free? Now is the time to ask questions, seek answers, and explore the world – the spiritual and the tangible. What are your favorite spring rituals? What were springtime traditions in your childhood? What is new and growing within you? How can you honor the newness of life in you and around you?
We don’t have to wait until the weather is warm and the sun is shining to recognize all that is fresh and new. This community is fully engaged in doing a new thing. Perhaps this is an invitation for each of us to nurture something new in ourselves. Maybe a new spiritual practice. Maybe a new hobby. Maybe a renewed commitment to self-care. Maybe a renewed commitment to helping others. Let your imagination free and see where it leads you.
This is a season in which possibilities are unlimited. Rediscover a forgotten passion or nurture a new one. Reach out to old friends. Make new ones. Invite folx to join us for worship. You never know who might be needing the support of a loving, faithful community like Living Table.
And in those quiet moments, give thanks for the small things of every day. And pray for those who are carrying burdens that will make it hard for them to enjoy this season.
About Rachael Keefe
Rev. Dr. Rachael Keefe is the pastor of Living Table United Church of Christ. She was called to Living Table in 2015 after serving in many varied ministry settings since her ordination in 1992. She holds graduate degrees from Princeton Theological Seminary and Andover Newton Seminary at Yale (formerly Andover Newton Theological School). Her ministry and leadership often center around advocacy and accessibility. Her writing has been published by Chalice Press, The Christian Century, Red Letter Christians, Working Preacher, RevGalBlogPals, and others. She is grateful to be in ministry with Living Table today.
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