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The above title has been the theme for the Tuesday Bible study during the Lent/Easter season as the group looked at the scripture passages and listened to the music Johannes Brahms composed in creating his A German Requiem. Through Brahms' composition, we have been able to travel from the grave, with the stark and grim reality of death, toward a focus on our immortal God - who offers a "lovely dwelling place," comforts us like a mother in the face of death, and gives us the victory over death through Jesus Christ. This fact enables us to look to the future in faithfulness and hope. This study has been challenging for many in the group and has provided an opportunity to reflect on our Christian beliefs and faith. As Carol Bechtel Reynolds, the author of the guide I used in leading the group, wrote: The Apostle Paul wrote that he did not want us to "grieve as others do who have no hope" (1 Thess. 4:13). Notice that he does not tell us not to grieve. Rather, he implies that for Christians, grief happens in hope's strong embrace. This is the message of Easter...that no matter how painful and grief-filled life is, we have the hope of eternal life through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. No matter how many tears are sown, we have the hope of reaping joy. This fact of faith enables us to continue on our earthly journey. I think Christian composers, Bill and Gloria Gaither, put it well when they wrote: Because He lives, I can face tomorrow; Because He lives, all fear is gone. Because I know He holds the future and life is worth the living - just because He lives. The good news of Easter is too good to be limited to one day or even one season. May we carry the transforming message of Christ's triumph over death with us each and every day and share this hope with those who are hurting. Happy Easter! Pastor Martha Dominy
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