Recently I saw a member of the Canadian Forces in the grocery store. Not an unusual sight in Owen Sound, with the proximity to LFCA TC Meaford, but not an everyday sight, either.

What stood out, of course, was the member’s CADPAT camouflage uniform. It was immediately apparent who they were, what their job was, and if you knew exactly where to look, their name and rank.

More than a decade and a half ago I had the privilege of taking a ten day tour to the Holy Land. It included Galilee, Jerusalem and the Dead Sea, as well as several days in Jordan. It was an incredible life changing experience that has affected both my ministry and my preaching. I am glad I was able to go.

One of the most significant and moving moments was the time we spent in Jerusalem.

Three specific sites stand out for me and I was grateful that I was able to enter holy space, even for a short time.

Dying, We Live

Easter Sermon, March 31 2013

Preached by Rev. James Murray at Dominion-Chalmers United Church

When I was growing up, one of my favourite Easter hymns was “All things bright and beautiful”

“Each little flower that opens, each little bird that sings,

he made their glowing colors, he made their tiny wings.

All things bright and beautiful, all creatures great and small,

Draft of Sunday's Message:

A New Heaven and a New Earth 2013 03 31 Easter: Isaiah 65:17-25; Luke 24:1-12