March 30, 2024  

A Celebration of Renewal and Awakening: Our Sunday, March 31st Celebration Service. Dr. Edward Viljoen

This Sunday, we will reflect on the season we find ourselves in. As the natural world around us awakens with new life , we, too, are invited...

This Sunday, we will reflect on the season we find ourselves in. As the natural world around us awakens with new life, we, too, are invited to step into a space of renewal and growth. This past Wednesday evening, we gathered for our spring equinox community potluck, celebrating the beginning of spring and the promise of new beginnings. On March 24th, the Festival of Colors, Holi reminded us of the joy of embracing our true colors and the emergence of our best selves. Amidst the observance of Ramadan, we are reminded of the virtues of patience, kindness, and strengthening our connection with the Divine through fasting and charity. And though this year Passover will be observed a bit later, on April 22, it too calls us to remember the themes of liberation and renewal that spring brings.

Easter Sunday, we come together to celebrate the continuity and renewal of all life.

The lyrics of the song we will enjoy touch upon themes of liberation, rebirth, and the profound peace that comes with embracing our true essence:

"Now is the time when I let go of my fears, inhibitions, and sense of dread, When I give up control and let you hold me with no resistance in my soul, This is the day that I throw it all away to the fire of the all-loving one, Now, I have just what I need to be free to be who I really am, Here is the place where I fall into grace and release into the sweetness of your love, I surrender, I remember the light and the beauty that I am."

These words capture the essence of spiritual living—moving through moments of fear and doubt with the courage to let go and trust in the Divine presence within us.

Our journey to freedom and self-discovery is often marked by challenges and moments of uncertainty. Yet, in these moments, we are called to remember the peace that rests quietly within our consciousness, undisturbed by the storms that rage around us. Like the disciples in the boat during the storm, we, too, may forget the power of inner peace when faced with adversity. However, there is always a presence within us, calm and at rest, ready to say, "Peace, be still," and bring us back to tranquility.

This season, we are reminded that the Self within is beyond the reach of any storm or challenge we may face. It invites us to tune into its renewing presence in our lives and remain centered even when tempted to forget.

As we navigate personal and global challenges, let us remember to pause and ask ourselves where our attention is. If necessary, let us reroute our focus toward peace, especially when life feels overwhelming. It is not about denying our feelings or becoming actionless but about taking a moment to reconnect with the transformative energy of the Divine presence, allowing it to guide us toward love, understanding, and new beginnings.

This Easter, let us embrace the spirit of resurrection within each of us. Let us be reminded of the perpetual cycle of renewal, the power of forgiveness, and the courage to begin again.

I invite you to join us this Sunday, March 31st, for our Celebration Service at 9 or 11 am, in person or online. Together, let us embrace the new life that spring brings, awakening to our potential every day, and living in the joy of perpetual rebirth.

Peace, peace, peace. Amen.