The stories of the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus change lives. Even when we cannot find the exact words we seek, people of faith have been comforted and inspired by our efforts. Remembering Jesus’ crucifixion and his resurrection has helped innumerable people get through harsh and discouraging times and provided hope in times of death.
During one Good Friday service while the Passion Narrative was being read, a little child rushed out of the service in tears because the news that they killed Jesus was so overwhelming. There is power in the simple telling of the story.
A nominal Lutheran in palliative care had a picture of a painting of Jesus’ crucifixion on the wall by her bed. She said, “I’ve been studying that picture. He understands the suffering I’m going through.”
Our feature uses words and pictures about the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus.
The words are written by adults in response to the question, “How would you explain the death and resurrection of Jesus to a 12-year-old?” (The question was inspired by an article in the March 2020 issue of Canadian Mennonite.)
Although words may engage our minds and sometimes our emotions, they may not reach the depths of our hearts. Some-times it takes something like children’s art to stir unexpected responses in us. Several children in our church provided the art-work used with this article in response to our invitation.
My thanks go to everyone who contributed to this issue with art or words. May your contributions encourage others to reflect on the meaning of the death and resurrection of Jesus during Lent and Easter this year and enrich their faith.
Glimpses
Some practices become so routine that we tend to forget why we do them. It’s useful to be reminded why our lectionary is a valuable companion as we journey through each calendar year of the church (p.15).
If coping with the pandemic is getting you down, you may get a lift from learning how it provided one family with time to pause, give thanks and connect (p.9).
Apology
In This Issue, January/February, p.5, I wrote that I had invited a couple of People of Colour to help me think through my column. However I did not name them. They were Rev. Aneeta Saroop and seminarian Janelle Lightbourne. Since writing those words, I have come to understand that my neglect to name them had the effect of marginalizing two wonderful women and their significant contribution. I apologize. I did and continue to value the insight and support they gave.
Kenn Ward, Editor
Loading ...