Grace and Peace to you, Siblings in Christ.

Every day of our lives is an unfolding of Holy Week. Some of our moments are euphoric. Some moments turn the tables on money changers. Some of our moments feature washing and newness. Some of us live in the disillusionment of Good Friday. Some of us are unplaneted by joy. The God-relatedness of all of it is holy.

For me, there have been times that hearing a judge’s verdict from the bench is holy. To be an empty-handed shepherd with someone who is dying is holy. To hear a sermon reveal that we are both broken and blessed is holy. To hear another language sing about devotion is holy. There is no end to the things that are holy. Drink it all in this week, each step behind Jesus, praying in the garden, staying awake, fear of the empire, and living the questions.

in the garden
the near side of God
healing the human ear
can put
your swords away

A blessed holy week and the fullness of Easter joy to you. May peace and well-being come to the whole earth.

Know that I am praying for you.

 

Bishop's 2024 Easter Greeting from Northern Illinois Conference on Vimeo.