What the disciples thought was an ending because of Jesus' death, was really only the beginning. God turned an instrument of death into a universal sign of hope and life, proving that His love is the most powerful force in the universe. And this force moves us. It changes us.  

 

We often veer in the wrong direction, following paths that take us further away from the life God has created for us, instead of those paths that draw us closer to Him. Yet, God never gives up on us. We are never beyond reach of God's redeeming love. In that love, He will meet us where we are, restore us, and and put us back on the right track.  

Jesus' life becomes a parable. The way he lived, shows us how we too should live. Not in pursuit of money or power or fame, as the world might call us to. But, a life of love and service - like washing the feet of others and sharing a meal. 

On Palm Sunday, we celebrate Jesus' procession into Jerusalem as He ushered in the Kingdom of God. During Holy Week, we will be drawn closer to His suffering, resurrection and redeeming love. And this hope of Christ and His resurrection on Easter sustains us through life's trials. 

Through the story of Lazarus, Ben Whaley shows that in darkness and uncertainty, creation and joy are possible! It's in the dry bones where the Spirit breathes new life, in the darkness where resurrection happens, in the wilderness where our hearts are truly open to God. 

Throughout this series - In the Wilderness - we've watched how disruptive encounters with Jesus give people new eyes to see the world. Our reading this week continues with the theme, showing us that compassion leads us to see differently. 

The Samaritan woman's life is disrupted when she meets Jesus at the well. Her experience with Jesus transforms her and she invites others to come and see the man who knows her and loves her. The Season of Lent should be that kind of disruption for us. One in which we encounter Jesus and are transformed. 

 

We often hide our troubles and mistakes behind a pretty exterior. Those things are kept in the dark. Yet, our experiences with Jesus call us to take down those walls and be authentic – to live in the light. The light of Christ shines on our darkness and exposes the truth so we can be healed and restored.  

 

Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness. His time in this wilderness, was much like the time of the Israelites and Moses and Elijah as they were in the wilderness. It is in this place, that we too are formed and learn who God wants us to be.  

 

On Ash Wednesday we confess our sins and own our mistakes. We give these mistakes over to God, remembering that they don't define, but that our identity is found in God alone.