CLAY AND WATTLES

Easter Sunday

Paul and I went to first service this morning at 8:30. The worship service began with a narration of everything Jesus is, and is to us. I've heard this before and it's beautiful - done by a black minister and I don't remember who. The music was beautiful, the choir dressed all in pastel shirts or blouses, black pants. Bro. Matt's sermon was from John 19:30 - "Why did Jesus have to rise from the grave if He said, 'It is finished,' from the cross?"

1. We would have no absolute truth if Jesus stayed dead. This fulfills Scripture. (1 Cor. 15:30, Luke 9:21-22)

2. Death was over - Jesus rose to conquer death. (Acts 2:24)

3. God raising Christ was His way of approving what had been accomplished. (Philippians 2:8-9)

4. God raised Christ from the dead as His way of declaring those who are in Christ innocent and guiltless. Jesus was raised for our justification. (Romans 4:24-25)

5. The resurrection of Jesus from the dead secures our infinite, eternal joy and hope. (John 16:20-27; John 20:19-20)

After the service, there was a fellowship with coffee and cinnamon rolls. I talked with Helen and Charles Lynn a bit; her shoulder surgery will be in May.

For dinner I made the sweet and sour meatloaf and macaroni and cheese from recipes online Bren had made the meatloaf some time ago and Pioneer Woman's mac/cheese recipe. Must have been pretty good - Paul went back for seconds.

Read the paper, dozed in the recliner. Later I cleaned out some old papers from filing cabinet, shredded some, made hot chocolate with a Peeps marshmallow in it. Listened to TheRadio.com; good website to choose many different kinds of music. Paul's been "working on a project" in the garage - a little stand to put his garage garbage bag holder on. Texted b/f with Amy - she said they weren't busy, but she's at work - her weekend to work. She had texted me this: "I'm not perfect, just forgiven. Praise the Lord! He is risen! HAPPY EASTER!" Yes!

Melanie sent pictures by email of Nate playing T-ball, and one of Sher with her GPS that says "Florida." I wrote Mel back that some Grandma's will go to any lengths to see their grandsons play T-ball! I know Sher is as near as the phone, but I also know she is much farther away. But, as I've probably said before: She was near Mama and near me for reasons, for a season, and I'm thankful. I told Paul she told me to remind her not to move again! He said, well, you know she will! No, I wouldn't be surprised if she requested one more overseas tour; she'd have her job there in Florida when she returned and would be that much nearer retirement. Nate and mom Melanie, brother Zack.

Bailey looks relieved to be there, too.