Preparing for Ascension Day This Week…
As the world around us blossoms into the fullness of Spring, I'm reminded of the ever-changing seasons of life. Here in our local Amish community, the season has unfolded like a well-tended garden, with thunderstorms watering the earth almost daily. One day, hailstones the size of marbles graced our rooftops, leaving the community in awe of nature's power and grace. Despite the strong winds that have swept through, we've been fortunate to remain untouched by the harsher winds and tornadoes.
As we continue to navigate this season of growth and renewal, our thoughts turn to one of the spiritual milestones that anchor the year in our Amish community. Ascension Day, which will be observed this coming Thursday, is one such event on the Amish faith's calendar. It is a day filled with contemplation and reverence, marking the moment Jesus completed his earthly mission and ascended to heaven.
In the quietness of our community, Ascension Day begins with a solemn fast until the noon meal, a tradition that binds the Amish families in shared devotion. They prepare for the day by ensuring all necessary work is completed the day before, allowing them to enter the holy time with clear minds and open hearts. It is a day when the plow rests beside the fallow field, and their hands, so often busy with each day's toil, come together in prayer.
The essence of Ascension Day is one of rest, similar to the stillness you find in the Amish community on Sundays. It is a day when the scriptures come alive as the families recount Jesus' journey to his heavenly home. The children are also taught the importance of being thankful for Christ's love and sacrifice.
During church services the Sunday following Ascention Day, the words of Acts will be read as a reminder of the apostles' witness to Jesus' ascent. Each church service held right after Ascension Day is filled with continuity, linking past, present, and future.
Meals in Amish homes are humble on Ascension Day, reflecting each family's commitment to fasting and focusing on the spiritual rather than the material. Work is set aside, except for the essential care of their animals. It is a day that impacts every facet of Amish lives, a pause in their earthly journey to reflect on the eternal path we all seek to follow.
One story we heard in our local community tells of a local Amish man who, on Ascension Day, began his work at the sawmill as if it were any other day. It was an honest mistake, a slip into the rhythm of daily life that momentarily disrupted the day's sanctity. Hearing the sound of the mill's motor starting, his neighbor hollered a friendly reminder, "Remember, today we rest." The mill was silenced with a nod of understanding, and the day continued in peaceful observance. This simple yet profound story is a testament to the gentle guidance the Amish offer one another in upholding their traditions.
In addition to dodging raindrops and creating handmade baskets this week, the Amish families who craft the items available on the AmishBaskets.com website have engaged in various activities.
The Mast Family
A turkey hunting adventure took an unexpected turn for the neighboring family to the Masts this week. Father and son set out before dawn and settled quietly in the woods with their decoy set. As the morning chill gave way to the warmth of the rising sun, they both drifted to sleep. Upon waking, they were greeted by the sight of a turkey right in front of them, or so they thought. In a flurry of excitement, they aimed and fired, only to realize they had shot their own decoy. Despite the initial disappointment, the story has already become a favorite in the community.
The Yoder Family
The Yoder family's routine was disrupted when their hefty Holstein bull decided to explore beyond its pen. Their son, taking on the responsibility of corraling the bull, found himself outmatched in a playful yet assertive display of the bull's strength. After a few tumbles in the garden, he managed to grasp the bull's nose ring, holding on until help arrived. The incident left him with a few bruises and a newfound respect for the bull's power, but all was well that ended well.
The Gingerich Family
The Gingerich family has been particularly thankful for the season's generous rains. Their timely planting of alfalfa has resulted in a thriving field, much to their delight. The rains have also contributed to the lushness of all the community's pastures, ensuring that the livestock remains healthy and happy. This week is special for the Gingerich family as they anticipate attending their cousin's church service in a neighboring district and spending the day with them. The event promises to strengthen family bonds and create lasting memories with both families.
"Days are like identical suitcases only some people can pack more into them than others."
— Amish Wisdom
