John 20:1-10, March 11, Tue

Simon Peter also followed him and entered the tomb. He saw the linen cloths lying there, and the cloth that had been wrapped around Jesus' head was not lying with the linen cloths but was folded up in a separate place.(John 20:6-7)

Reflections on Daylight Saving Time

One of the greatest benefits of Daylight Saving Time is the extended evening light. When the sun remains in the sky after our workday ends, we often feel our day has been more meaningful. This lingering daylight also inspires us with the sense that there's still time to accomplish something worthwhile.

The trade-off, however, comes in the mornings. When it's time to rise, darkness still envelops the world outside, making it more challenging to leave the comfort of our beds.

Life consistently presents us with this balance of advantages and disadvantages. Having adult children brings a certain peace, yet simultaneously creates a void as they forge their independent paths.

Staying busy keeps us engaged, but we can't ignore the physical toll it may take. Through these experiences, we come to understand that life is never one-dimensional.

Lent and Early Mornings

During this Lenten season, beginning each day a little earlier feels spiritually appropriate. Though I've been away from Korea for some time now, I still find myself waking naturally around 3 or 4 a.m. I've recently decided that when this happens, rather than trying to recapture sleep, I'll simply embrace the early hour and begin my day.

I often wonder if this pre-dawn waking is God's gentle invitation to rise and pray. As this pattern continues, I find myself contemplating its deeper meaning.

These accumulated moments of reflection bring richness to our lives. Today's passage from John points us toward Easter—the empty tomb, the disciples and women in distress over Jesus' missing body, and the Gospel writer's observation that they had forgotten Jesus' promise of resurrection. All these elements guide our hearts toward the Easter celebration.

Here we witness how differently people respond to the same event. As in all of life, we cannot expect uniformity in perspective or emotional response.

English Ministry Initiative

Yesterday, I presented a proposal requesting a pastor to lead our new English worship service. Recognizing the practical considerations involved in launching such a ministry, I suggested financial support for the first year, with a gradual reduction beginning in the second year.

Though I had prepared an extensive presentation of more than 20 pages, when the moment came, I set those materials aside. Instead, I spoke directly to the thirty congregation members present, making eye contact with each person as I shared our church's vision and future direction. Many expressed joy and anticipation about how we are living out our faith.

With greater expectations comes increased responsibility for our commitments. With this awareness, I requested their prayers and concluded the presentation.

Pastor Yoon Ji-eun's Upcoming Surgery

Tomorrow (March 12), Pastor Yoon Ji-eun will undergo surgery to address an enlarged blood vessel behind her right eye that has been increasing pressure on the eye. The four-hour procedure was scheduled relatively quickly, but we're thankful she connected with an excellent doctor and that preparations have proceeded smoothly.

As we discuss dreams and visions for our church, we must remember to pray for those facing sudden health challenges. Rather than allowing excitement to overwhelm me, I'm maintaining a calm presence, sharing our thoughts, and seeking space for prayer.

Living Between Two Paths

We perpetually stand at the intersection of divergent paths, constantly making choices and determining direction. In our faith journey, this represents the ongoing spiritual discernment of our steps and purpose.

Lent invites us to walk alongside suffering while simultaneously reaffirming our mission and recommitting ourselves to it. I invite you to join in prayer during this season of reflection.

Meditation

What choices and directions have you been preparing for in your life?

Intercessory Prayer Requests

• Please pray for Pastor Yoon Ji-eun's successful surgery tomorrow (March 12).

• Please pray that we may offer heartfelt gratitude for the growth of Open Church.