“Jesus offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to the one who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission. Although he was a Son, he learned obedience through what he suffered and having been made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him”
“No Pain, No Gain” was the cheer of encouragement offered by my swim coaches, then posted around the pool on meet days. “No Pain, No Gain” was the nudging words of my trainer, who pushed me through strenuous workouts as I sought physical wellness. “No Pain, No Gain” was the guidance of the physical therapist as she talked me through the pain of rehab after my leg had been immobilized for three weeks. “No Pain, No Gain”
The transformation from where we are to where we are called, wanting, or need to go is often hard. Changes take work and sometimes sacrifice. The change in God’s story came with the birth of Jesus - a holy day we now have as a celebratory holiday that is far more than how the story began. Sweet baby Jesus boy grew up, and God called him beloved. Jesus' baptismal party was a trip to the wilderness where he fasted for 40 days and 40 nights, tempted by the devil. Jesus’ life was never easy, leading to his final act of suffering on the cross.
Jesus’ pain is our gain. Through Jesus’ suffering, death, and resurrection, hope is alive. Yes, we have hope as Jesus, God with us, took on the death of eternal suffering to have eternal life. We still have to suffer as we live on this evolving earth. We still suffer as the Holy Spirit transforms us into new creations with Christ Jesus.
On this last Sunday before Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, we consider the path of transformation and the suffering that creates hope as we journey with Jesus. No one said it would be easy; Jesus said I will always be with you.
Worship our life-giving God and fellowship with the people of Westminster. See you Sunday as we worship at 10 AM in the sanctuary and online anytime.
Pastor Dennis
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