June 2018
This is one of the least favorite sayings that I have heard from Christians over the years of ministry. People think about their burdens and trials, and consider it their “cross,” but it’s not. The normal, and even many of the abnormal burdens, trials and struggles of life are common to us all – but that isn’t what Jesus was talking about in our Gospel lesson from Mark 8:31-38 for this Sunday.
“If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake, and for the sake of the gospel, will save it.” Deny themselves… deliberately pick up the cross/burden… follow Jesus… being willing to lose one’s own life for Jesus and the gospel. What is Jesus talking about here? “Where are all these “blessings” that people talk about? Where’s my perfect life? Where’s my new car? Where’s my winning lottery ticket? What about ME!?!?!?” Jesus is pointing us in a new direction here – one which DOES offer blessings, but real ones – like peace, contentment, deep joy and an amazing peace. These come from a life of service, of giving oneself on behalf of others, freely spending ourselves on behalf of others and the gospel as we follow Jesus’ example. Our Lenten Journey points us now to the cross, and invites us to take up the one made for us, and follow Jesus’ example of servanthood and sacrifice. It isn’t easy – especially if we’re trying to do it in our own strength or for our own fulfillment. The life of faith is a life connected with Jesus and with God’s people. THAT’S the journey we’re on. Where has your journey been taking you? Annual Congregational Meeting This coming Sunday, February 28th, we will have as much of a congregational meeting as we can manage during COVID times. The Zoom invitation is in the email you received this past week, and later in this newsletter. I’m sorry it will be largely informational and less participatory than we are accustomed to – but that’s how things work during these strange days.
God’s Richest Blessings on your Lenten Journey!
Pastor Larry 1.