Solidarity in suffering - March 26

Today’s Readings:  AM Psalm 69:1-38; PM Psalm 73; Exod. 1:6-22; 1 Cor. 12:12-26; Mark 8:27-9:1

We continue to read through the first letter the apostle Paul wrote to the church in Corinth. Today we hear that the body of the Church has many members who are joined into one body. We need each one of us. Those of us that seem weaker are indispensable. Those who are less respectable receive more respect. Those who are inferior are treated with more honor. We have the same care for one another, and if one member suffers, all suffer together with them.

Some of our community may be awaiting test results, wondering if a paycheck will come through, or feeling very isolated. On a normal Sunday, these experiences are just a few of many concerns that you carry with you when you’ve come to worship at Saint Stephen’s. During the liturgy, we cast these cares upon God through sharing music, prayers, passing the Peace, gathering at the Table for Eucharist, and sharing coffee before Christian Formation – and by the time we depart the doors of the church, we usually feel a greater sense of connectedness and peace.

When we are unable to meet face to face, we are still one body. The clergy and staff of Saint Stephen’s are working to stay connected with all of our community – through written word, daily scripture reflections, Bible studies by phone and internet, live-streamed worship and music, phone calls, and letters. Each member of our Saint Stephen’s community is valued and beloved. You still can cast your cares upon our Lord, and find comfort through our Christian fellowship. Let your clergy know what is weighing upon you; for you are not alone. As Paul reminds us, “if one member suffers, all suffer together with them”.  

-- Katherine+

Questions for Reflection

  • Jesus asks his disciples who people say he is, and then asks his friends the same question. Who do you say Jesus is in your life? How do you tell others about Jesus?

  • Peter is disturbed to hear Jesus’ bad news about suffering, and Jesus rebukes him, as his thoughts are on human things, rather than divine ones. In times of suffering, where do you set your thoughts?

Daily Challenge

  • As we are one body in Christ Jesus, take one action to stay connected with another member of Saint Stephen’s.

Katherine Harper