from bishop jim

I write to you as I return from Texas where I performed the interment of my brother-in-law, a decorated Green Beret who received two Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star in Vietnam. It was at the National Cemetery in El Paso, Texas, my home town, which has been in the news lately for its border with Mexico. But as Stacey and I thought about what transpired this past week and began looking forward to Holy Week, we heard the devastating news that Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris was burning. We had visited that Cathedral in the early part of my Episcopacy and the wonder we felt looking at the large Rose Window that had just been lost to the fire as its lead melted and the glass smashed to the ground.
 
And then I thought of All Saints and its loss, just a few weeks ago, when a man none of us knows wreaked mayhem on beloved gifts of windows. All of these events hurt us in one way or another. Some tended to take us from our focus upon this time of year and our walk on the Lenten Road. But maybe, just maybe, it can all keep us more focused on the true meaning of this Holy Season and why we believe in a Savior who gave Himself for us. 
 
Those who die in the Lord, will rise to new life in Christ. Troubles in our national and personal lives are called to be met with the power and strength of the gift of God through His Son. Losses of treasured gifts and even sacred items, can be replaced and may be rededicated to God's service and blessing. And our own lives will end, and yet may be continued in Christ’s eternity. All of it rests upon the gift of Jesus’ Resurrection, the true focus of all. See life in Christ and see life as truly given of God. Look to God and His gift of His Son in grace, his love. Some hurt during this time and it is the whole who can lift us up. Celebrate Easter as the gift of life and love and share it with each other by practicing each day the love of Jesus and His gift of life. Blessed Easter to all.

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