May 6, 2022

Kierkegaard, whose birthday as yesterday, tells us, “Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards.” True, yes?

We can often (but not always) see the hand of God in our lives looking back. What at the time seemed horrible or confusing turned out to be a beautiful part of God’s plan. Sanctification may mean something like having slightly more trust in God as we go on “stumbling through the dark” (The Jayhawks) going forward.

As the prophet says, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)

“O God, whose Son Jesus is the good shepherd of your people: Grant that when we hear his voice we may know him who calls us each by name, and follow where he leads; who, with you and the Holy Spirit, lives and reigns, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.” (Fourth Sunday of Easter – BCP)