The mission of The United Methodist Church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

We enter into a Holy Week like none other. We aren't waving palm branches in our sanctuaries on Palm Sunday, we aren't together for Holy Communion on Maundy Thursday, and we aren't stripping the altar on Good Friday. Nevertheless, none of that changes the meaning of this week nor does it negate the power of our journey with Jesus to the cross. Perhaps, as we consider the pain and chaos of our present time, we better understand the pain and chaos of Jesus' last days of ministry.

I pray for each of you that this will become the most meaningful Holy Week you have ever experienced. To that end, I want to encourage you to spend time this week meditating and praying over the seven last words/sayings of Jesus from the cross. May these words take you to the heart of Jesus who loves you greater than human comprehension.

1) Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." - Luke 23:34
2) Jesus answered him, "I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise." - Luke 23:43
3) When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, "Dear woman, here is your son." - John 19:26
4) And at the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?' - which means, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" - Mark 15:34
5) Later, knowing that all was now completed, and so that Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, "I am thirsty." - John 19:28
6) When he had received the drink, Jesus said, "It is finished." With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. - John 19:30
7) Jesus called out with a loud voice, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit." When he had said this, he breathed his last. - Luke 23:46

Praying for you and your church this Holy Week,
Brian