In my Navy days, one of our dubious expressions was, “every day’s a holiday, and every meal’s a feast.” It was said sardonically, dripping with disdain and sarcasm. This was especially true if your main meals were at the “chow hall,” or galley, on base. For us musician types, holidays were seldom off, particularly the patriotic ones. I laughed at the sick humor, but I always wanted my shipmates to know and see what I did. There was hope and promise far beyond the institutionalized grub and the long stretches without liberty (days off). Thanks to the Holy Spirit imparted on me at my baptism, and my craving for worship and fellowship, I could rejoice even in meager, negative circumstances.

The free food graciously offered at the Lord’s Table, shared by people of common faith – so few Navy personnel availed themselves of that opportunity. Fewer still realized that Easter ISN’T just a one-day church holiday, or a “pay gig” if you’re a brass player. I did manage to “evangelize” one year, inviting four of my bandmates to an Easter service. The promise of a lunch party following was a helpful enticement.

We are all stewards of a story. It is a story in which we are the specially invited guests – not just on Easter Sunday, but EVERY Sunday that celebrates the Eucharist, the heavenly banquet, the feast that has no end, the feast that is far more satisfying than the best cuisine that Navy mess cooks can put out. Every day IS a holiday, the best liberty ever, the freedom to live in God’s kingdom on earth. The life and love that our Savior freely gives is unconditional!

Pastor Art