February 25, 2026 Midweek News
Last Sunday we began our worship series “Entering the Passion of Jesus.” Each Sunday we will look at one day of Holy Week and immerse ourselves “in the frame” of Jesus, his disciples, and the city of Jerusalem itself.
As we reflected on Palm Sunday and Christ’s triumphal entry into Jerusalem (on a little donkey!), we recognized the risk involved in that symbolic approach. Risk for Jesus, risk for his followers, risk for the crowd.
There was risk in joining Jesus that day. Risk to reputation – What would people think? Risk to safety – what if Pilate decides to stop this uprising before it starts? Risk to comfort – Wouldn’t it be easier to just stay back and prepare for the Passover feast? But there was also risk in staying home—risk of missing the quiet revolution of grace unfolding in real time.
The first week of Lent invites us to consider: What is the greater risk—to follow Christ into uncertain places, or to remain unmoved?
As you reflect on this question today, I invite you to ponder this prayer:
God of courage and compassion, steady my heart when following you feels costly.
Help me discern where you are already at work and give me the boldness to stand there, too, in body or in spirit.
May I not miss the movement of your Spirit because I chose comfort over calling. Amen.
Lenten blessings,
Pastor Jared