The resurrection stories in the New Testament are not big, boisterous stories, shouting the news of the resurrection from the rooftops. Instead, they are tentative stories, involving a lot of uncertainty, questioning, fear, and vulnerability. In that way, they're well-suited for our times. For we too are living in a season of uncertainty and fear, … Continue reading When Jesus Shows Up: A Reflection on John 20.19-31
[This Easter Sunday, I was asked to preach at a virtual family church service. Today's reflection is a tidied up version of my speaking notes.] Good morning and good afternoon, everyone. It's wonderful to be able to gather together like this — albeit virtually — to celebrate the biggest feast of the Christian year. At … Continue reading God’s New Thing: A Reflection for Easter 2021
I don't know about you, but this week has been a struggle for me. All of the disappointments and frustrations of this COVIDtide season have been rubbing up against all my baggage, neuroses, internal narratives, and automatic negative thoughts in all of the most unhelpful ways. (It's a great testament to human narcissism how a … Continue reading On the Road
For some reason, the idea of setting the first week of Easter apart as "Bright Week" has grown more important to me over the years. It conjures for me images of open windows, refreshing breezes, singing birds, and leisurely coffees. But most of all, it brings to mind the idea of spaciousness. After all the … Continue reading Holding the Space: A Reflection on Bright Week
Alleluia! Christ is risen! He is risen today. He is risen for us. He is risen in the midst of sickness. He is risen in the midst of grief. He is risen in the midst of isolation. He is risen in the midst of political polarization. He is risen in the midst of societal disruption … Continue reading Surprised by Life: A Reflection on Easter
Matthew Root 