God is willing to re-order the world to seek out and welcome everyone who is far from home. The Story of the Prodigal Son says to us: No matter where we are on the journey – no matter how far from home – no matter who we are – no matter what we’ve done – there is One who is willing to bring us back home.

 In bewildering times, empowered by the Spirit, “what we can do” is the steady work that flows out of our baptism.

In baptism, we enact what has always been true: God loves and welcomes everyone.

With the women at the empty tomb, we proclaim this Resurrection truth: Everything that lies ahead is life.

On Palm Sunday, as we turn toward the cross, Jesus joins us in the deep suffering of the world, with tender mercy there, too.

As Mary anoints Jesus, they embody for us a world based on sharing, reciprocity, and tender mercy.

We consider the call of the Parable of the Lost Son, with Rev. Floyd Thompkins preaching (Pastor, St Andrew Presbyterian Church, Marin City)

In our fear, God comes to us with the gifts of presence and possibility for a future in which we are not alone.

Our world these days can feel utterly disorienting. As we cry out in lament, we find God not far off, but near... in the midst of the suffering, joining our lament, and calling us into life. Psalm 22 invites us to lament (loudly); to listen for lament (the suffering of the world); and to draw near (to God and to each other).