“When the days drew near for him to be taken up, Jesus set his face to go to Jerusalem.”
(Luke 9:51)
Holy Week is an invitation to reflect on and participate in the deepest mysteries of the Christian faith.
For those who are church leaders, Holy Week is also one of the most exhausting weeks of the year. On Tuesday, I preached at the Renewal of Vows service for the Northwestern Ohio Synod, and one of my observations was “when I hear the phrase ‘renewal of vows,’ my first thought is that it’s not my vows that need renewing right now; it’s me that needs renewing!”
And so, dear readers, I offer a few words of renewal from the Scriptures during this hectic, holy week:
“By the grace of God I am what I am, and God’s grace toward me has not been in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:10)
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9)
“Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew 11:28-29)
Those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. (Isaiah 40:31)
As you engage in the work of this week – the professional work of ministry and the soul-work of a Christian – may you be sustained and renewed by God’s promises.
The Rev. Kathryn A. Kleinhans, Ph.D.
Dean
Trinity Lutheran Seminary forms leaders for Christ’s church at work in the world.