Last Sunday's sermon was more challenging because it covered one of the more uncomfortable concepts in our faith: the violence of the cross and human hearts. I seldom enjoy covering that material, but it is a non-negotiable part of mature Christian faith. Thank you for your attention to a complex topic.
This Sunday is much easier on our hearts and minds. "The Crossbeam." Very early in the formation of the church, there was an insistence that a crossbeam was essential. However, the argument is based on theology, not historical evidence.
The insistence comes from the belief that as Jesus dies, his arms are open. The open arms symbolize a desired embrace. Imagine a parent picking up a child at daycare or a couple holding each other in one of life's difficult moments.
This Sunday, we will celebrate God's warm, vulnerable embrace. We will run together toward God's open arms, and our human hearts will touch the sacred heart of the universe. The crossbeam promises that all brokenness will be overcome, all sadness will be comforted, and violence will not be the last word for anyone.
Celtic cross
On March 16, we distributed small Celtic crosses on purple or green cords. We ran out before everyone got one, but we have 20 more available. You can pick one up in the office or on Sunday morning.
Lenten Study
Friday, March 28th, 10 am "Cross as Stake" Tewksbury
Wed. April 2nd , 6:30 Soup & Spirit "The Crossbeam" Wilmington
Friday, April 4, 10 am "The Crossbeam" Tewksbury
Wed. April 9, 6:30 Soup & Spirit, "The Way of Transformation" Wilm.
Friday, April 11th, 10 am, "The Way of Transformation" Tewksbury
Holy Week
Thursday, April 17, 7:30 Holy Week Service in Tewksbury
Friday, April 18, 12 pm Holy Week Service in Wilmington
Easter April 20
6:30 Sunrise Service at Silver Lake, 1- 7 Burnap Street, Wilmington, MA
7:00 Easter Breakfast Wilmington UMC Fellowship Hall (free-will offering)
9:00 Tewksbury Service 10:30 Wilmington Service
6:30 am Sunrise Service Silver Lake
Grace and peace,
Peter
