Growing up Catholic, I loved all the pageantry that pointed toward the divine, miraculous nature of Jesus. Angels, miracles, heaven and hell, transubstantiation (Eucharist turning into the real body and blood of Jesus), virgin birth, tongues of fire at Pentecost … and that is just the New Testament excitement! God smiting my enemies with floods and fire and turning people into pillars of salt? Bonus! Bring on Ezekial with his wheel in the air and Joshua blowing down the walls of Jericho with a trumpet.

Of course, based on the myriad of rules from the Bible and the Church, it seemed like no one would be safe from damnation and eventually, I found myself in a fugue state between what I was being taught and what seemed right - and not just “right” in the sense of Satan’s grand plot for my soul, but also like “hmmm … something doesn’t quite seem right about what the church is saying vs what Jesus said. At the time, I didn’t realize this was the same conundrum Martin Luther had faced 500 years ago, and I wasn’t nearly as committed as he was, so I was just going to walk away and try not to be bothered by it anymore.

Luckily, some brilliant people continue to ponder our theology. As we approach Holy Week and Easter, a time charged with some of the most powerful of Jesus’ miracles - including his death and resurrection, here are some of the ways my view of Jesus has changed in the last 20 years. Many of these thoughts were condensed in a list by theologian Jim Palmer, but are all things I have come to understand during my spiritual journey.

Jesus thought deeply about how people treated each other. He preached about accepting children into worship, talking to women, and loving people who society would usually cast out. In short, he was trying to transform society, in a humanitarian way, for the living. We forget that when we focus on what we need to do to get into heaven. If we think it is right to treat people badly and we are forgiven at the very end, or Jesus died to save us so we get a free pass, then we’ve missed the point.

We should be focusing on spreading Jesus' message of love. That’s what Jesus asked us to do. He didn’t say, “worship my name every Sunday and then go on with your lives.” He was confident in who he was, but I’m pretty sure he was a humble guy who really just wished everyone would play nice. Jesus’ death and resurrection is an excellent reminder of our salvation, but it is also important to see that while Jesus was alive, he was teaching us that there was already no separation between us and God.

If we are waiting for Jesus to return and save us from all the suffering of the world, we aren’t taking any responsibility for making the world better ourselves. We should be using our own power with the example Jesus taught us to effect change rather than hoping that saying Jesus’ name will magically make things happen. There IS power in prayer - but that doesn’t mean we sit back all the time and let God do all the work.

Jesus is a beacon of courage, justice, humanity, beauty, and love. If we focus on his message and the gifts God has given us, we can hear how the Holy Spirit is calling us to be part of the Resurrection promise.

Your sibling in Christ,

John Johns, Music Director

Until this past week, I had not thought much about International Women’s Day. There are many days that we are supposed to celebrate according to the Hallmark calendar, it’s hard to keep up. However, last Friday on International Women’s Day, I had the privilege to watch Cabrini, a movie about the life of Mother Cabrini, the first American Saint.

Her determination to care for the Italian Immigrant community in America that was faced with poverty, disease, and discrimination in the 1800’s was eye-opening. She worked to create orphanages and hospitals. She was a savvy businesswoman during a time when women had no respect. The conditions that she and the other sisters worked in were deplorable but their desire to serve God through caring for this community outweighed any personal conditions they would endure. I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t last a week in their circumstances.

Since I watched the movie, I have intentionally tried to think of women who lift their communities through their service, education, and working for justice and inclusion. Think of the Bible without Esther, the Virgin Mary, or Mary Magdalene. Without Esther, the Jewish race would have been killed in a mass genocide. Without Mary, we would not have Jesus Christ, our Savior. Without Mary Magdalene, the disciples may have never known that Christ had risen. I lift them up.

Or what about women and what they have contributed to the modern church? Karen Olsen, founder of Family Promise, saw a need in her community to keep families experiencing homelessness together. She enlisted churches to help and Family Promise grew into a nationwide organization. Rachel Held Evans worked for the inclusion of the LGBTQ community in the church and made it OK to not have all the answers about God and our faith. I lift them up.

Then there are the women who work to serve, educate, and stand up for what is right at great risk to themselves. Malala Yousafzai, the young girl who was shot in the face by the Taliban because she fought for her right to an education. Rosa Parks, who refused to give up her seat to a white man on a bus. I lift them up.

These are inspiring examples of living, serving, and taking risks. We are blessed in our community with women who do the same. Maybe not at risk to their own safety but they have the courage to undertake something out of their comfort zone, challenge a discriminatory policy or viewpoint, serve when they're already weary from a full day or welcome all with open arms. I encounter women every day at Lord of Life who live with a passion for including all, sharing God’s love, and serving in Jesus’ name. I lift you up.

Who do you know that inspires you as they shine the light of Jesus? How can you shine that light? I lift them and you up.

I get teary-eyed thinking of the women who shaped my life through their example of kindness, empathy, service, courage, and love. As I doubt myself, and question my abilities or direction in life, their guidance, example, and faith have always centered me, given me peace, taught me, and provided much-needed grace. Please join me in lifting in prayer all these women and the women in your life who have given you this precious gift. God, we are so grateful.

Living and serving in Christ’s love with you,

Angie Seiller, Director of Faith Formation

Nikki Haley suspended her campaign, this week, sharing the same words that launched her bid for the United States Presidency, last year: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid. Do not be discouraged. For God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)

The LORD spoke these encouraging words to Joshua as he took over leadership of God’s people following the death of Moses. The people of God had finished their forty years of wilderness wandering and were preparing to step into the Promised Land. Joshua wasn’t sure what lay ahead or how he would lead, so God fortified him with these words that continue to lead us into uncertain futures with confidence and hope.

I imagine that these words have been a tether of grace for Nikki Haley for many years. Declaring them in this season of her life offers hope and promise, once again, on the cusp of whatever journey is next for her. She steps forward with strength and courage, confident that God goes with her. So should we.

What a gift small passages and nuggets of Scripture can be. We absorb them from a variety of sources including worship, Bible reading, devotional material, media, and songs. They nestle into our hearts and minds, planting silent seeds deep within us, which then begin to germinate. Like the spring crocus and daffodils in southwest Ohio, we never know when these words of truth will poke their tips up through the earth and into our lives.

If you didn’t notice, our church campus was blitzed by words of encouragement and strength, this past Sunday. During the 9:30 learning hour, our senior high youth, armed with buckets of sidewalk chalk and Bible verses, covered the front sidewalks, the parking lot, and even the brick pillars in our entryway with words of promise, hope, encouragement, and love, including some listed below:

“Let all you do be done in love.” (1 Corinthians 16:14)
 

“The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things.” (Galatians 5:22-23)

“When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” (Psalm 56:3)

“God’s got you,” “Grace and acceptance,” “See good in all things,” and “Be brave!”

You couldn’t leave Lord of Life without wondering, “What is going on with all the chalk stuff everywhere?” Even after several days of rain, this week, I continue to be greeted by Bible verses, words of encouragement, and colored bricks. What a boost!

I recently had the opportunity to sing some of my favorite lyrics from Harry E. Fosdick’s epic hymn, “God of Grace and God of Glory:” “Grant us wisdom, grant us courage, for the living of these days.” Again, what a boost!

Take a moment and jot down some Bible verses or lyrics that fuel your journey of hope. Stick them on a mirror you use often. Post them on your door where you’ll read them as you come and go. You know where you need to be reminded of who God is and who you are. Laptop? Phone? Vehicle? Desk? Refrigerator?

Wherever you are heading in the coming days, God will be with you. If you are staying put and finding joy in the well-established patterns and rhythms, be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid. Do not be discouraged.

If God is calling you to remain where you are, but stir things up and be a change agent, be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid. Do not be discouraged. If you are headed into new and uncertain territory, be strong and courageous as you forge a new path. Do not be afraid. Do not be discouraged. The power of the living God and the abiding presence of the Holy Spirit go with you wherever you go.

Forward in Hope,

Pastor Lowell

Lord of Life Lutheran Church in West Chester has been a part of my life for about as long as I can remember. From childhood memories of First Communion, senior high lock-ins, bring a friend to church Sundays, two ELCA National Youth Gatherings, and so many 11 pm Christmas Eve services (including Little Debbie Christmas cakes), into my adult life with a wedding, three baptisms (including a pandemic baptism), First Communion and Confirmation for our oldest, and Lord of Life Christian Preschool for our two youngest, the space of Lord of Life feels like a home away from home. 

The hustle and bustle of a Sunday morning with three children often feels slightly chaotic. We aren’t often early, barely managing on time, but we all find our space and our peace here. I feel incredibly grateful to continue my journey with Lord of Life and to be raising our girls here in this community full of acceptance and grace. 

When the opportunity to be part of the leadership team on the church council came to me, it didn’t take much thought as my instinct was to go for it. I’ve enjoyed the meaningful discussions, forming friendships, and the goal setting for the future. My husband Matt and I also love the opportunity to spend time with the senior high students as leaders on Sunday morning and for other events. This group is energetic and inspiring and I am so thankful to get to grow in faith right alongside them. 

Truth be told, I think we have so much good going for us here. With full schedules and busy lives, it’s easy to overlook the significance of the small moments we encounter in our church community. From a smile exchanged during a passing greeting to a heartfelt conversation after service, these ministry moments are the building blocks of a vibrant and connected congregation. 

I hope that we continue to grow together and increase our impact for assisting those in need both locally and internationally. I’m proud to be part of Lord of Life in all capacities and I have faith that we’ll continue to move with God’s guidance towards “living, sharing, and celebrating with ALL people, God’s love in Jesus Christ.”

Yours in faith and hope,

Jillian Campbell

Jillian is just beginning her 2-year term as our Church Council President. Jillian also serves on the Lord of Life Christian Preschool Board and is part of the teaching team for senior high youth on Sunday mornings.

Have you ever thought about being a Holy troublemaker? Maybe you are one but haven’t put a label to it. I didn’t create the term, but I like it. I learned about it from a children’s book, Holy Troublemakers and Unconventional Saints by Daneen Akers. She describes them as people of faith who have worked for love, compassion, and justice in their corners of the world and eras, even when it might mean rocking the religious boat. While their lives look different, what each troublemaker and saint have in common is that they use their faith to work for the good of everyone. The book includes stories of (Mister) Fred Rogers, Rachel Held Evans, Harriet Tubman, and many more that I just learned about their stories.

When do we step outside of our comfort zone to live out our faith in justice and love? So often we can be overwhelmed with stories of injustices or inequities. Many times, the lines are blurred or labeled as political issues. We get tired of hearing it. We don’t want to listen to what makes us uncomfortable or makes us dig deeper to understand. We justify our silence with “it’s always been this way and it’s fine”. It’s easier to stay in our lane and not have to dwell on issues that make us uncomfortable. We don’t want to be labeled as troublemakers. Sometimes the issues seem insurmountable. Where to begin is daunting so we don’t. I get it all. I’ve felt it all.

But as followers of Jesus, he is the ultimate Holy troublemaker. His teachings and actions were radical in his time. He challenged established religious authorities, overturned tables in the temple, used stories to emphasize all-encompassing forgiveness, and associated with societal outcasts. By advocating for love, forgiveness, and justice, Jesus disrupted the status quo and confronted his era's religious and political powers. His message of inclusivity and compassion often clashed with prevailing norms, leading to conflicts with the religious establishment.

We just completed a Wednesday morning Bible study series on Martin Luther and our ELCA Lutheran beliefs. I would call him a Holy troublemaker. He questioned the church on traditions that separated the teachings of Jesus from the common people. Nothing should separate us from the love and grace of God even if it is rooted in traditional church beliefs.

Holy troublemaking doesn’t always need to be loud. It can be a conversation challenging a viewpoint or not staying silent when a derogatory comment is made about a person or a community. Sometimes it’s a march together, or creating art, or organizing to change a law. Sometimes it’s as simple as supporting a community or individual facing injustice or hardship. Maybe it’s not judging circumstances or communities we don’t fully understand or taking the time to dig deeper to learn. Maybe it’s asking hard questions or not jumping on a particular viewpoint’s bandwagon without research or empathy.

I love Lord of Life because we aren’t afraid to ask hard questions, or for our kids to ask difficult questions or challenge ourselves to grow and learn. We may not have all the answers but we follow the example of Jesus as a Holy troublemaker who is leading in love, compassion, forgiveness, inclusion, and justice. Where can you be a Holy troublemaker? How can we be Holy troublemakers together?

Living and learning in faith with you,

Angie Seiller, Director of Faith Formation

I’m so glad that Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow on Groundhog’s Day and that this will be a short winter. The sunshine recently has been restorative! On our women’s retreat, we were able to enjoy the sun on an afternoon walk. The sun brings so much joy to our lives, making certain activities more pleasant such as strolls and fun on the playground. As wonderful as a snow day can be, I’m glad we’re turning our attention to spring.

Our Lenten journey can be similar to this transition from winter to spring. On Ash Wednesday we are reminded of our humanity through the imposition of ashes and hearing, “You are dust and to dust you shall return.” Yet from the dust, from the brokenness of our humanity, sprouts of life emerge when we recognize that we are forgiven and receive the grace of Jesus Christ. Each day the sky brightens a bit more as we get closer to Easter.

And then Easter is the ultimate sunny day in our faith. The Son has risen and we rejoice! We have been through the wringer of Holy Week – the celebration of Palm Sunday and the entry of Jesus into Jerusalem to the devastating crucifixion of Jesus. We wake up on Easter to the realization and joy that Jesus has overcome the grave and is alive! It is such a miracle that we are giving thanks and celebrating 2000 years later.

Our celebration is about more than the miracle of Christ’s resurrection. It is what Jesus has done through his death and resurrection that we give thanks. Through his death and resurrection, we are given eternal life. There is nothing we can do to deserve this, it is all freely given to us because of God’s great love for us. We can take comfort in that no matter how broken we are or how many times we fall short, Jesus is still there for us.

On this journey, how is Jesus calling you? In our culture, the talk around Lent typically involves conversation on what we are giving up, how are we fasting during this period? In our Lutheran tradition, we don’t tend to fast during Lent. Martin Luther taught that fasts can be very beneficial for discipline and keeping the body from its worldly desires. However, there is no fasting that can earn us salvation or grace. Those are the free gifts of God. So where does that leave us? 

For me, I am going to try to reinforce good habits that have slipped away over time. I want to have a stronger prayer life and more time focused on journaling. I’ll be spending less time scrolling social media, but I’m not setting out as a specific fast. I am not denying myself but rather ensuring that I am being satisfied spiritually and emotionally first. I am feasting on things that are better for me than getting lost in reels I’ve already seen.

What about you? How will you be spending these next six weeks? However you decide to travel this journey, may you bask in the light of Jesus and enjoy the beautiful growth that is upon us. As the flowers sprout from the dark soil, may the love of Jesus sprout in your hearts. May you know the peace of Christ fully this season.

In peace,

Pastor Laura Applegate, Seminary Intern