Grief and Hope

In this Lenten sermon series, we study the stories and parables that defined Jesus’ final chapter in ministry. The story of Lent is a story of messy middles. Jesus is on the road, but he’s not there yet. Jesus is telling stories, but the crowds don’t understand. Jesus is leading a parade, but it’s not the one they expected. Jesus is risen, but the disciples can’t forget the cross. The story of Lent, the story of our faith, is a story of messy middles and nuanced surprises. So this Lent, we are remembering that faith is more complex than this or that, black or white, true or false storytelling. This Lent, we are wading into the middle of these sacred texts to find God and to stretch our own understanding and we hope you’ll join us. Welcome to an in-between Lent. This is the light before the dawn.

The sanctuary is full of fragrant lilies and alleluia choruses. The community is decked out in colorful hues, their “Sunday best.” Visitors' faces mix with familiar ones in the pews. Easter Sunday is meant to be jubilant, joyful—a chance to begin again in a weary world. And yet, for far too many, grief can feel like a heavy weight tugging at their hearts. For far too many, shame encroaches if they can’t find their way to joy. This Easter, we hope you will make space for grief and joy, mourning and hope, for all these things can coexist. May the good news of this story be that no matter how you arrive this Easter morning—whether you are steeped in grief, stunned in disbelief, or running in the direction of hope—resurrection is for you. This story is for you.