Pastor’s Corner – Sunday, Apr 19

Lessons from Loss

Mourning my son’s death has taught me that faith matters. Throughout the long illness Adam endured and the sudden decline that led to his passing, we were supported by the abiding and graceful presence of God. God did not take away the illness or the dying. God did not rescue us from hardship and heartache. But God has been and continues to be with us in helpful ways.

I felt God’s presence in the cards and messages of support, in the comfort of food left on our front porch, and the many prayers offered on our family’s behalf. God’s presence was revealed in worship, music, and moments of unexpected beauty. I was sustained by kind smiles, heartfelt tears and hugs, and in the joy and innocence of the little ones in my life.

I knew God was present when Adam entered the peace death brought. I experienced grace in the intimacy of loved ones gathered in the immediate wake of his passing. I continue to find peace in trusting Adam’s illness is finally healed in God’s eternal embrace. I rejoice in affirming that I will see Adam again. I am encouraged that he has joined my cloud of witnesses.

Turn to God in your losses. The Good Shepherd will provide for your needs.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:1-2)

Yours in Christ,

Marc