We journey in the midst of a tumultuous time. Floods in the upper Midwest, political unrest and violence in too many places to name (but special prayers here for Madagascar, home to so many of our Malagasy community), and economic turmoil that transfixes the world, touching us in ways large and small.
In this context, I am deeply impressed with the commitment of this congregation to the continuing support of our ministry. Our offerings for the first three months of this year actually exceed last year’s, and we continue to receive new commitments to the Capital Campaign.
Our roof will be complete before Easter, and other projects are progressing well. It is a testimony to lives grounded in faith, and connected to place.
Lutherans believe that God’s Word is the “source and norm” of our faith; the Bible is where we learn of God’s amazing deeds, and promise of grace. There are signs of new growth in this Spring season.
Wednesday evening Bible study, new this Lent, is well-attended. Pastor Miller leads evening prayer at the conclusion, enhancing the richness of the experience. There is discussion of continuing to meet after Lent, same time and day. Please contact the office if you would be interested.
Those in attendance at our Lenten retreat on March 7th surfaced a desire for lay-led, home-based Bible study groups. We are tentatively planning to begin one such group in the North Slope in the near future – again, please contact me if you are interested.
Our Gospel reading for this Easter Sunday comes from Mark 16; v. 8 makes for an interesting study: So they went out and fled from the tomb, for terror and amazement had seized them; and they said nothing to anyone, for they were afraid. I am always comforted by these words, even though they speak of terror and amazement. At first, not even those closest to Jesus knew how to respond to his rising. But, after awhile, and after some false starts, they began. The Word went forth… because those who heard and believed told others, taught others, baptized others. The foundation they laid 2000 years ago is where we still make our home today, the place where, this Easter, we will exult, “Christ is risen! He is risen indeed. Alleluia!”
Pastor Parsons
