As we move into our remembrance of Holy Week, it occurred to me that my feelings this year may be closer to the feelings of the women and men who followed Jesus into Jerusalem two millennia ago. Like them I feel some uncertainty and anxiety about what is to come. Like them I am staying as close to Jesus as I can.

This perspective has helped me interpret some of the words of Jesus during Holy Week in light of and in relation to the crisis we face. For example:

• As Luke tells the story of Palm Sunday some critics of Jesus demand he stop this demonstration of enthusiastic followers waving palm branches and shouting "Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord". Jesus responds, "I tell you, if these followers were silent, the stones would shout out." This response reminded me that even though much of our normal activities have come to a stop, nature itself is still demonstrating the hope and new life of a fresh season of growth!

• In the Temple, only days before his unjust arrest and execution, Jesus recalls what matters most-the love of God, neighbor and self. It is the power of love that makes it possible for Jesus to walk the path of trust and suffering that lead to the cross and beyond. So too on our path of adversity a renewed commitment to receiving and sharing Divine love will surely keep us moving through suffering to healing and hope.

• John adds to story of the Last Supper a touching and powerful moment-Jesus humbly washing his disciples' feet. Just as Jesus serves us and soothes our stress in this uncertain time so we can offer grace and peace to others through prayer for the sick and their caregivers, caring notes or calls or texts to our circle of influence, offering monetary donations to efforts that are engaged in helping ease the burden and end the crisis, and reassuring our children who may be especially shaken by this pandemic.

• From the cross Jesus pronounces, "Father, forgive them". Even in the midst of personal suffering Jesus could see beyond the pain to offer what others needed. Recent years have been characterized by so much division and anger. Could this global crisis help us reset our priorities? Could a spirit of forgiveness heal the rifts? Could we set a new course of global cooperation that provides collaborative solutions to the challenges that threaten the well-being of our planet and its people?

As you join me in study and reflection on the Holy Week stories let us look for the wisdom that empowers us to be Christ's disciples for our own journey to the cross and the empty tomb.

From my family to yours-blessings of safety and health in the days ahead.

Pastor Marc