A note from Pastor Travis 3/28/24

Today we find ourselves in the heart of Holy Week. The events that unfold over the next few days are at the heart of our tradition and our faith. We worship a risen Christ and a liberating Gospel. We believe that God redeems our lives and calls for us to transform our world. 

Today, as prepare to celebrate Maundy Thursday, I share a reflection from Diana Buttler Bass’ newsletter “The Cottage.” Diana Buttler Bass is a lay person who writes about faith and the church. She has written a number of books, which I highly recommend, and has a great newsletter. (The newsletter has a free version, which you may enjoy receiving in your email.)

Today she wrote about Maundy Thursday. She reflected on the blessing of the table and the shared meal. A portion of what she wrote reads, “A vision of the kingdom of God. The meal reminds us and continues the promise. What if Maundy Thursday was that? The Last Supper of the Old World. The last meal under Rome, the last meal under any empire. And it is the First Feast of the Kingdom That Has Come. The first meal of the new age, the world of mutual service, reciprocity, equality, abundance, generosity, and unending thanksgiving. Pass the cup, keep it going, hand to hand, filled and refilled, time after time. This night is the final night of dominion, the end of slavery; and this night is the first night of communion, the beginning of true freedom: ‘I will no longer call you servants but friends.’ This table is the hinge of history. The table is the point. Thursday is the Last Supper and the First Feast. The Holy Thursday Revolution.” 

Tonight, we remember Jesus’ last supper and first feast. We gather for worship knowing the events that will soon unfold. We know the great pain Jesus will suffer. Such endings are hard. Yet, we also gather in thanksgiving and hope. Jesus’ crucifixion is not the end. Death cannot hold Christ. Easter is coming and, with it, a new beginning. 

Tonight, this week, holds promise – for Christ is here with us. Join us in this journey of new beginnings.

Tonight, 7pm Maundy Thursday Service

Tomorrow, 7pm Good Friday Service

Sunday — Easter Sunday

6:30 Sunrise Service at Mt. Hood 

9:30 Children’s Egg Hunt at church 

10:00 Easter Service 

Blessings, 

Pastor Travis