Holding It All

It’s been one of those weeks where I’ve felt the heaviness of life, or at least the weight of what my college friend group is going through. And then, add in church members, and it’s a lot.

A friend had a heart attack. Another had surgery. One is nursing a broken collarbone, and another is mourning the loss of a partner’s parent. And while I’m not the one walking through those things personally, I feel it. That’s part of what it means to be in community. We carry things together, even when our emotional arms are feeling a little full.

And yet, there have been moments of joy too.

College visits. Family time. School milestones. And, of course, the completely unexpected joy of watching my Razorbacks make it to the Sweet 16. Honestly, they’ve had a rough season with injuries, short rosters, and more drama than I like in my basketball. But here they are. Still in it. I’ve been watching with one part hope and one part disbelief.

Little sparks in the middle of it all.

In our Tuesday morning Bible study, someone pointed out that we had more celebrations than concerns this week. That felt refreshing. A reminder that God's goodness is always there. We just don't always see it.

It’s funny how life can feel so heavy and light at the same time. How we can carry grief and still laugh. How we can feel pressed and yet still find room to breathe.Or at least enough room for a good dessert and a Razorback victory dance. (And yes, I’m counting both as spiritual practices this week.)

Paul once wrote,“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed. Struck down, but not destroyed. Therefore, we do not lose heart.” (2 Corinthians 4)

This Sunday, we’re continuing our Lenten seriesGood Enoughwith a story Jesus told. It’s a story that reminds us that no matter how far we’ve wandered, how deeply we’re struggling, or how much we’re juggling, there isa grace wide enough to hold it all.

It’s the kind of grace that refuses to let anyone become collateral damage.

So if your week has been a little too much, or even just barely manageable, you’re in good company. Come take a deep breath with us. Join us Sunday for worship, and maybe even a little joy you didn’t expect.

See you Sunday!
 

With Gratitude,

Rodney Whitfield
Senior Pastor
Aldersgate UMC