Easter Sunrise Service

The alarm went off at 5:00 a.m. I moaned once, and then my brain rolled over. The thought, “Sunrise Service” entered my cloudy head.

My feet were on the floor – the bed was made – and I was putting on my pants, socks, tennis shoes, two heavy jackets, a scarf around my neck, and two pairs of gloves. I was ready.

My husband had fixed coffee, and with two used McDonald’s cups full we were out the door.

Oh the glory. Services were at 6:00 at the Lavender Open Pit Mine in Bisbee, AZ. As we rounded the curve heading east out of town, we could see a few vehicles parked in the lot overlooking the pit. Folding chairs were set in a semi-circle, microphones were placed between the chairs and the pit, and a few people were standing in small groups visiting. With our coffee in tow, we sat in the front row.

The sun was already up, but it had not crested the hills on the east side of the open pit. As it rose higher the sun illuminated the copper, grey, and lavender hues in the open pit. It was a glorious sight. The Catholics opened the service, played guitars and sang Hallelujah. We had scriptures and more music from the Methodists, Presbyterians, Nazarenes, and Community Church.

I loved every minute. The spirit of the day was resting on my shoulder, and my husband sat close and sang along. Joy was in the air! In the hymn, I am the Resurrection, the lyrics … “For the world despised the Son of God…” reminded me that we all have people who despise us and that is sad, but on second thought, I would rather be like Jesus and feel the pain & betrayal than drag the weight of hate. That would be a much heavier cross to carry.

Thank you to everyone who planned the service, hauled the chairs, hooked up the speakers, made coffee, bought donuts and shared the moment. I wish the world a Blessed Easter.

Until the next time: Live while you live!