Loss is a universal human experience, yet its form takes different shapes throughout our lives. We may grieve the loss of a spouse or child or pet or a beloved one. It may be the loss of a dream or image of ourselves. Losses that result from illness and accidents and the unexpected twists and turns of living. And in these and others, it feels like we are losing everything that matters to us.

The risks of love draw us into relationship. The person who risks their safety standing for justice, that person may find a deeper sense of community in the struggle. The person who allows themself to be vulnerable, to accept correction and try to change, they discover what it truly means to be known and to belong. We don't take up our cross because suffering is good; we take it up because love is good. And often love is tied to heartache, worry, or grief.

While looking in the mirror, Saint Paul exhorts us to not think too highly of ourselves. To not be conformed to this world, but to be transformed. To use our gifts for the common good. To offer our bodies—our whole selves—as spiritual worship. To be mirrors of divine grace.

Though Mary is considered the most famous woman in history, for centuries she has been demoted in most Protestant churches. Mary is for Orthodox and Roman Catholics, after all. Jesus only, Protestants says. In fact, until the late 1970s our Lutheran calendar had commemorations for all the male disciples and for Saint Paul. But no feast days for Mary or Mary Magdalene!