An experience at the Altar of Repose
by a Covenant Community Member
(5 April 2007)

The curtains were open into the tabernacle room – the lights in the chapel were dim and my gaze  is riveted  stunned by the white and light that has transformed the small inner room.   Our eyes saw the light white drapes hanging high over the tabernacle all clothed in white.   It was a Jewish boudoir!  A luxurious Bedouin tent – a place of total withdrawal from the events to come – a place of rest and peace.  The ancient lamp hanging above the tabernacle – the only colour.
 
I felt on seeing the whole effect from afar  a sense of loss -  O Lord You have withdrawn Yourself from us – You need to rest and gain strength with the Father and the Spirit to withstand the horrific events to come.   I am happy that even with this overwhelming feeling of Your withdrawal that You are in this place of peace and repose, still You are with us.  I am grateful that      the Church has allowed us  to receive  Holy Communion on Good Friday – the atmosphere of “withdrawal” until the great event of Easter Sunday is overwhelming.

The hangings are like a four poster bed – the Bridegroom is waiting – He beckons us to stay with Him in these hours – the curtains are open -  The Ark of the Covenant is revealed – “Please stay with Me a while “.  Tears blur the effect of the whole experience – “Who am I ? that I should be so loved”    “How many, O Lord my God are the wonders and designs that you have worked for us:  You have no equal” as  the psalm says.    
 
This encounter at the Altar of Repose I will cherish as long as my memory serves.