An Unforgettable Celebration

I don't think I've ever experienced such a "full" Easter week or weekend. The staff that organized it truly did a phenomenal job and I can only imagine all the hours and effort it took in planning and preparing for this great celebration. I am forever grateful for this Easter and all that I participated in.

Thursday evening myself and three of my roommates went out to Deck 7 to wash each other's feet. What is it about washing someones feet that you truly feel like you've blessed them? It's such a sacred thing that truly allows me to relate with Jesus in such a divine way. From there we headed to the "Upper Room" where we knelt at ten stations, praying and reading passages in Mark leading up to the crucifixion and then ending with communion. Later that evening I went to the International Lounge to visit "The Garden of Gethsemane". I cannot even begin to describe the decorations. As I knelt there gazing upon the cross, hearing the sweet sounds of a garden, I challenged myself with this,

"So, could you not stay awake with me one hour? Stay awake and pray that you may not come into the time of trial; the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak." Matthew 26:40-41

So, for an hour I sat in the garden, on my knees, praying to the One who makes me whole. I cannot express to you how amazing it was but, I can challenge you to do the same.

Friday began with an unforgettable Good Friday service. The setting alone allowed you to easily humble yourselves before the cross. This was not your typical service with chairs and a formal program. There was more of an intimate feel as we all knelt around the cross, allowing ourselves to truly focus on the act of great love that the Lord showed us that day.

Easter morning most of my roommates and I were up at 6:30 to attend the sunrise service out on deck. Now, this was not my typical sunrise service. Instead of being with my family enjoying the sunrise service we usually attend every year out on the beach in Hilton Head, I was on a boat looking out into the town of Freetown. I couldn't help but smile as we sang and worshiped yesterday morning and felt like those surrounding me were truly my family.

Loved the center piece!

Ending the weekend with an unbelievable brunch I was somewhat assured that this Easter will never compare to the rest. Unfortunately, I did have to work all weekend but, it brought tears to my eyes when my family called me at the desk wishing me a Happy Easter :) Oh how I miss them greatly.