Redemption Waits On Us

The rituals of Passover

Took priority over the Rising.

The people, the congregation, the community

Had to complete their appointed tasks

To recall, recapture, relive their ancient exodus and salvation in the desert.

And Redemption patiently waited in the dark tomb.

Specific foods were prepared

Prescribed liturgies were sung, read, and prayed

Ancient Jewish traditions carefully re-enacted in compliance with the scriptures

And Redemption patiently waited in the dark tomb.

Then, and only then,

After Passover was complete and the people slept

Only then did

Redemption Rise from the dark tomb.

Redemption didn't Rise until the people proclaimed their faith

Shalom waited until the people were ready.

Redemption waited on them

And now

Redemption waits on us.

Waits on us to share Shalom with others 

And

Fulfill the call of our faith practices knowing

They are just this - 

Only practices that bring the Ineffable close enough to intuit

Close enough to pass within a whisper of Jesus' cloak, to reach, to touch

To be healed.

Redemption waits on us.