Today is Good Friday and together we gather around the foot of the cross. It’s a story we have heard since we were kids that can bring up a lot of stories and emotions within us. The story is both a tragic description of how far love will go and how far the world might go to snuff it out. Yet, despite this darker reality in our world, we trust that God has something bigger and better in mind. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Romans, asks a powerful question: “Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will hardship, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? … No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us” On a day like today, Paul reminds us that even in death—even in grief, betrayal, and injustice—nothing can separate us from the love of Christ. Not even death on a cross. Not even the ugliness in our world. 

Together we trust that there is actually so much GOOD in the world, too, and this story, our story, doesn’t end in darkness. We know that the tomb will be empty. The stone will roll. The song of sorrow will turn into a song of joy. So, as we move through this holy week with reverence, we hold both grief and hope. We may linger in the shadows of the story for a moment—but keep our eyes open for the dawn that’s coming.

I want to take a moment to express my deep gratitude for our congregation and each of you. This season, our church has walked through Lent telling stories, singing faith, showing up in ways that matter. Thank you for being part of this journey. Thank you for being the church. It is a great joy and privilege of my life to serve you in this way.  

This Sunday, we’ll celebrate the Resurrection together at our Easter morning service, and I truly hope you’ll join us (whether in person or online) as we proclaim the Risen Christ! 

Easter Reminders!
Easter Sunrise Service – Derthick’s Farm, 6:30am (bring your own seating and maybe an umbrella!). Please check email in case we move the service indoors to the church due to the weather!
Easter Breakfast – MCCC, 8:30am (free will offering to support the youth)
Easter Worship Service – MCCC, 9:30am

This Easter, I would also invite you to consider giving to the Disciples Mission Fund Easter Offering, which supports the work of our Regional and General Church across the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Through this shared ministry, we help carry Christ’s love beyond our own doors. You can give during worship this Sunday or online through our website. Our church gives part of our annual budget each year to this covenantal ministry! 

May the story of this holy weekend speak to you anew and may you remember, today and always: nothing can separate us from the love of Christ.

Looking forward to worshiping with you this Sunday! Peace in the Risen Christ,
Pastor Chad