March 2008 Message from the Pastor

Lent into Easter

Can it be that focusing our attention on the path of mortality can lead to something good and positive? We know the path all to well as we witness death commonly in our close relationships. Some deaths are smaller (friends move, relationship break-up, our bodies break down gradually) and others all too final. But what’s the value of focusing on this path for we know where it leads.

Or do we? Our journey to Christ’s cross certainly seems deathly enough. His body was dead, as dead as can be. Yet, because of Easter’s resurrection, we celebrate a new Christ who lives again. We were reminded on Ash Wednesday that \“we are but dust and to dust we shall return\” yet this doesn’t stop us from living with expectation of Easter and the multiple signs of new life.

So, the question I wish to leave with you is: "How can you best prepare for Easter’s entrance into your life?\” Knowing the whole story as we do, how do you anticipate new life?

I suppose we have many and individually unique answers to the question but I want to encourage you to think seriously about at least one option: Stephen Ministry.

Starting on Sunday afternoon from 2 to 6 p.m., we will begin training new Stephen Ministers. Between now and then you will receive more information about the training and how to evaluate whether you’re suited for being a Stephen Minister. I won’t go into details here but I want you to know that this might be a very powerful way of helping others who are still living on the path of Lent to find the joy and wonder of Easter.

Please consider this ministry and talk to me or to Donna Christensen if you think it might be for you.

As I watch the tulip tree outside my window prepare to burst open with new color, I know Easter is getting close. I hope you notice it also and can’t wait for it to arrive. Together we can make the most of it. Thanks to the risen Christ!


Pastor Jim Friedrich