2 Samuel 1:17-27, 2 Corinthians 8:7-15 and Mark 5:21-43
One would have to be a hermit or on constant vacation to avoid bad news, stress, and woe. And even then the hermit gets sick and the vacation might have bad weather!!
The lectionary texts all present some different challenges most of us face throughout life: loss and grief, health challenges, needs of a whole community. The Bible, once again, is realistic.
Time and time again, as we read and hear from scripture, we find ourselves looking in a mirror: “That’s happening to me. I feel that way. Where can I turn for help? How can I help?” Both Paul and Jesus address the needs of many. And, in turn, we should, in our time and place, be quick to call upon the Lord as well as step up and meet the needs of others.
It seems to me, that this is the greatness and fullness of a life of faith in the community known as church. Herein we know rough things can happen. Herein, we will find help and we will offer help.
Thanks be to God!
Pastor Barry †