The End Before the Beginning

“When they came to the place that is called The Skull, they crucified Jesus there with the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. Then Jesus said, "Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing." — From Luke 23:33-43

This last Sunday of Pentecost is always a bit jarring. Ending the liturgical year with the crucifixion right before we prepare for the birth of Jesus catches our attention in its stark imagery compared with the arrival of a baby born in a manger. But during that suffering is a call to truth. We see the innocence of Jesus. We see his compassion for us and even for the criminals who die alongside him. We realize that no matter the horrors we see in our world, God still promises to be radically present with us.

An invitation to look for a kingdom of truth, constituted around the person of Jesus Christ, feels more powerful than any image of avoidance or escape. It is an image of Jesus set within all our struggles, assuring us of his presence, which provides us real hope and sustenance. It is the truth that allows us to see the world as it really is yet not trap us in the grips of despair. It is a good foundation around which we build our Advent practices.

We move toward this season of expectant hope, more aware than ever of our need for God and for one another. Community promises a group of faithful people to wrestle with these difficult questions and seek meaning with one another. Jesus lived his life in a community of disciples he chose to carry on his mission after his death and resurrection. This calling asks us to go bravely into the painful places in our lives and in the world to reaffirm that no place is beyond God’s love.

Advent is always a simultaneous invitation to await the birth of the baby while we claim the return of the risen one. Which invitation is most prominent for you this year? Do you need the fragility and vulnerability of the baby? Or the strength of the return of the risen one? Or both?

Regardless, I hope you intentionally seek community as part of your Advent season. We have many ways for you to connect, whether it is through service, fellowship, musical offerings, or a deepening of your prayer. Join us and invite a friend!

Peace, Beth +