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Across the Pastor’s Desk by Peg Marose

Let’s face it, folks. This has been the mildest winter in Minnesota’s history.

Many of us dread the long winters, wrapped in layers of clothing like an Egyptian mummy, of a caterpillar enfolded in a silky cocoon awaiting the transformation yet to come in the spring. This year we are unsure of what to expect from day to day.

I can imagine that Jesus’ disciples felt much the same way. They had witnessed healings, transformations and resurrections of many followers of Jesus, the Way.

“[Jesus] began to teach them that the Son of Man must undergo great suffering, and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again.” — Mark 8:31

This is not information that the disciples are ready to hear, understand or accept. Even though we may not be ready to hear it, we need to hear it, year after year. Not the suffering and killing part, but the message of hope: Jesus knew what he was doing, what was going to happen and the fact that after three days there would be a resurrection- his!

We all have encountered resurrection moments such as when a family member receives a terminal diagnosis only to beat the odds of recovery. The person addicted to drugs, alcohol, gambling or something else altogether, who has sought help, and is on the road to recovery, healing and wholeness. Or a broken relationship that through prayer and loving care, has been reconciled. The life death and resurrection of Jesus, for Christians, reminds us that for those who believe, miracles are possible. Through the cross of Christ and his victory over death, we too are promised eternal life, resurrection into a world like we have never experienced, and all will be well — forever. Thanks be to God!

Peg Marose is the pastor of Good Hope Parish which serves Our Savior’s, Trinity, North Blue Earth and Bricelyn Lutheran churches.