in the midst of the pain...

This week has been full of being with loved ones as they sort out the hurt, shock, loss and love of a mother who two weeks ago was vibrant and today is dead. There are tons of layers to dig through and I am glad to be a part of it all. And in the midst of all the pain there continues to be a trust and grace that God's love is a part of even the loss. Not some sentimental, pastel phony Jesus who is only around for the good times, but the presence of a living God who aches with those who are wounded, laughs when jokes are told, helps carry the other when they are worn out and shares the bewildered silences.

Rather sounds like this new U2 tune to me...


Tomorrow we head back home to be with our faith community - and then back to New York a week later for the memorial service - all as a part of the rhythm of this change.