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March 21, 2008

Good Friday, March 21, 2008

Good morning friends and family,

As we continue our journey through Holy Week, last night, 19 of us gathered in the “Upper Room” at our church to commemorate Jesus’ last supper with his disciples. We refer to the place they held the last supper as the “Upper Room” as Luke’s Gospel refers to the location as “a large room upstairs, already furnished.” Picture a two-flat with a separate set of stairs to each floor. It might have been something like that—owned and cared for by someone else and yet separate and private.

I like to imagine that Jesus would have enjoyed gathering with his disciples in the “Upper Room” at our church. It is a beautiful space and more importantly, some life-changing work is happening there. The name for “Maundy Thursday” is based on John’s Gospel story. “Maundy” comes from the Latin word for the “mandate”, or new commandment, that Jesus gives his disciples in John 13:34. “I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another.”

There are many ways we can love one another—as Jesus loved us. His love extended beyond family and friends to include strangers, the ostracized, the feared ones, and the sick. Reconciling Ministries Network, Irving Park Community Food Pantry, and Martha Group (AA meetings) all serve those who have experienced judgment and exclusion from society and from the church. They are answering the call to love one another in unconditional, supportive, inclusive ways. Our participation and support of these ministries are one way we love one another, as Jesus loved us.

Tonight at 7:00 p.m. we will commemorate the events of Jesus’ crucifixion. I’ve heard the weather forecast. I see the snow coming down outside. Don’t be a fair-weather Christian. Don’t let other “distractions” keep you from experiencing the depth of the gift given for you. Jesus walked the lonesome road alone, but we can be his witnesses if we so choose. Jesus gave his life for us. What are we willing to give in response?

In Christ,

Pastor Vickie

Posted by vickie at 03:18 PM