suffered death and was buried

Good morning brothers and sisters,
Yesterday I had the joy of celebrating with Susan Orr as the presbytery recognized her achievement in completing her certification by the Presbyterian Church as an Associate Christian Educator. That certification represents lots of hard work and we're grateful for Susan's many gifts as she continues to serve the church in education and mission. We'll have a chance to recognize this achievement in worship at Laurelton on December 5th. I hope you'll be there to take part.

Today's reading shows us Jesus' death and burial. It feels strange to be reading this part of the story as we get ready for Advent; at the same time Christ's death and resurrection are the culmination of his ministry. The cross humbles me and helps me see how deeply God loves each of us. As we give thanks with friends and family tomorrow let us also give thanks for God's love for us in Jesus Christ. There could be no greater gift, and it came at great cost to our Lord.
May God bless you in your ministry today,
Sam

Luke 23:44-56

44It was now about noon, and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon, 45while the sun’s light failed; and the curtain of the temple was torn in two. 46Then Jesus, crying with a loud voice, said, “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.” Having said this, he breathed his last. 47When the centurion saw what had taken place, he praised God and said, “Certainly this man was innocent.” 48And when all the crowds who had gathered there for this spectacle saw what had taken place, they returned home, beating their breasts. 49But all his acquaintances, including the women who had followed him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching these things.


50Now there was a good and righteous man named Joseph, who, though a member of the council, 51had not agreed to their plan and action. He came from the Jewish town of Arimathea, and he was waiting expectantly for the kingdom of God. 52This man went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. 53Then he took it down, wrapped it in a linen cloth, and laid it in a rock-hewn tomb where no one had ever been laid. 54It was the day of Preparation, and the sabbath was beginning. 55The women who had come with him from Galilee followed, and they saw the tomb and how his body was laid. 56Then they returned, and prepared spices and ointments. On the sabbath they rested according to the commandment.