Entering the Weekend with Christ

Hi everyone,

The Scriptures for this Sunday tell a powerful story about trusting in God's love and compassion.  The woman who reached out in desperation to Jesus demonstrates her faith in action together.  This commitment to trusting in God's unfailing love reminds me of our work together through Olive Branch Community of Hope.

Pastor Tim

"God has led you to the desert, and spoken to your Heart."

Mount of Olives Lutheran Church

3546 E. Thomas Rd

Phoenix, AZ 85018

602-956-1620 office

When in Grief: Trust in God

Siblings in Christ,

Sunday’s readings give us a touching message of faith, resilience and trust in God’s boundless love.  

Mark 5:21-43 tells the story of two healings by Jesus. In both, Jesus recognizes the depth of faith and serves as a testament to the woman's and father’s unwavering faith and Jesus' power to heal the broken, both physically and spiritually.

2 Corinthians 8:7-15 shifts our focus the Apostle Paul as he encourages generous giving to the church in Jerusalem. He doesn't demand a specific amount but emphasizes giving "in proportion to one's means" (2 Corinthians 8:11). True generosity, Paul teaches, comes from a heart overflowing with love for God and a desire to help others. It's a reflection of our trust in God's provision.

Lamentations 3:22-33 offers a poignant reminder of God's enduring love even in times of hardship. The prophet writes, "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness!" (Lamentations 3:22-23) This passage reminds us that even when we feel lost or despairing, God's love remains constant. We can find hope and strength by placing our trust in him.

These readings, taken together, tell a powerful story about trusting in God's love and compassion. The woman who reached out to Jesus demonstrated her faith through action. The Corinthians, through their generosity, expressed their trust in God's providence. And the prophet, even in lament, acknowledges God's unfailing love.

How can we apply these lessons to our own lives?

• Reach out in faith: Like the woman who touched Jesus' cloak, we can reach out to God in faith, believing He can heal us and make us whole.
• Practice generosity: When we share our blessings with others, we reflect God's generosity to us. Our giving, no matter the amount, is an act of trust in God's provision.
• Hold fast to hope: Even in difficult times, God's love remains constant. We can find strength and hope by placing our trust in Him.

May we all learn to trust in God's unfailing love, reach out to Him in faith, and share His blessings with the world.