Introduction: The God Who Brings Life
The bible is amazing. It challenges us in so many places – and not just by the words but by the layout and the divisions. How many times have you closed one chapter and just moved onto the next one.
It’s easy to do – especially if you are a chapter a day kind of reader – and good for you. But too many times, people will close one chapter and forget the lesson it taught. The real sneaky thing the bible does – especially story tellers like Luke – the next chapter is a pop quiz on what you read in the previous.
In chapter 6 we had the sermon on the plain and what do most people remember most about that scripture? Most remember Jesus’ command to Love our Enemies. Yuck – we can see why we want to leave that chapter behind.
So, what does God do – he gives us an example of that happening in the very next chapter and most people don’t even notice. Remember the centurion from last week? Look what happens when two mortal enemies – the Jews and Romans – learn to love one another! Life – in so many different contexts of that story and for us.
I was going to go ahead and preach last week’s blog content but decided to press on. For those of you reading the blog you get the benefit of any things I might skip over in the sanctuary. Lucky you! hahaha
This week, we’ll explore one of the most moving miracles in Jesus’ ministry: the raising of the widow’s son in Nain. The story is not just about a miraculous resurrection, but about Jesus’ compassion, power, and His authority over life and death.
Luke jumps right into this story - a grieving widow, a lifeless son, and a crowd mourning the loss. Into this moment of despair guess who walks in... (the right answer is always Jesus). Yup, in walks Jesus, who sees the pain, speaks life, and restores hope.
The story can be challenging. It forces us to reflect on the depth of Jesus’ compassion and His power to bring life where there is none.
New here?
Read the scripture first in the CMC App. To get there, click the Bible icon at the bottom, then click Plan.
After reading the NT and OT verses for the day, come back here for discussion.
Every day I add to this same blog posting - so don't look for a new blog this week - just keep opening this one.
The bible is amazing. It challenges us in so many places – and not just by the words but by the layout and the divisions. How many times have you closed one chapter and just moved onto the next one.
It’s easy to do – especially if you are a chapter a day kind of reader – and good for you. But too many times, people will close one chapter and forget the lesson it taught. The real sneaky thing the bible does – especially story tellers like Luke – the next chapter is a pop quiz on what you read in the previous.
In chapter 6 we had the sermon on the plain and what do most people remember most about that scripture? Most remember Jesus’ command to Love our Enemies. Yuck – we can see why we want to leave that chapter behind.
So, what does God do – he gives us an example of that happening in the very next chapter and most people don’t even notice. Remember the centurion from last week? Look what happens when two mortal enemies – the Jews and Romans – learn to love one another! Life – in so many different contexts of that story and for us.
I was going to go ahead and preach last week’s blog content but decided to press on. For those of you reading the blog you get the benefit of any things I might skip over in the sanctuary. Lucky you! hahaha
This week, we’ll explore one of the most moving miracles in Jesus’ ministry: the raising of the widow’s son in Nain. The story is not just about a miraculous resurrection, but about Jesus’ compassion, power, and His authority over life and death.
Luke jumps right into this story - a grieving widow, a lifeless son, and a crowd mourning the loss. Into this moment of despair guess who walks in... (the right answer is always Jesus). Yup, in walks Jesus, who sees the pain, speaks life, and restores hope.
The story can be challenging. It forces us to reflect on the depth of Jesus’ compassion and His power to bring life where there is none.
New here?
Read the scripture first in the CMC App. To get there, click the Bible icon at the bottom, then click Plan.
After reading the NT and OT verses for the day, come back here for discussion.
Every day I add to this same blog posting - so don't look for a new blog this week - just keep opening this one.
Monday: Jesus Enters Our Grief
New Testament Reading: Luke 7:11–12
"Soon afterward, Jesus went to a town called Nain, and His disciples and a large crowd went along with Him. As He approached the town gate, a dead person was being carried out—the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. And a large crowd from the town was with her."
Old Testament Parallel: Psalm 34:18
"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."
Connection:
Jesus enters the scene of deep grief and loss, showing that He is not distant from our pain but meets us in it.
Historical Context:
We jump right in with the unimaginable loss of a widower of her only son! Luke does have a flair for getting our attention!
In first-century Jewish society, life for a widow was incredibly difficult. A woman's security and well-being were tied to the men in her family—her husband, her sons, or, in some cases, her extended male relatives. When her husband passed away, she would naturally turn to her children, especially her sons, to provide for her and protect her. Sons were more than just beloved children; they were a widow’s safety net, her future.
For this widow in Nain, the loss of her only son was devastating on every level. It wasn’t just the unbearable grief of burying her child—but without a husband or a son to care for her, she faced a future of poverty and vulnerability.
There were provisions in the Jewish law for widows, like gleaning leftover grain in the fields (as we see in the story of Ruth), but these were not guarantees. Many widows lived on the margins, dependent on the charity of others, often overlooked and forgotten. The first Apostles dealt with this in Acts 6 and it launched a church!
The funeral itself was a deeply communal event. In Jewish tradition, burial happened quickly, often on the same day as the death. The body would have been washed, wrapped in linen, and prepared for burial with oils and perfumes. A procession would then make its way through the town, with family, friends, and neighbors joining in to mourn together. It was a way of honoring the deceased, but also a way of supporting the grieving family.
And it’s here, in the middle of this heartbreak, that Jesus shows up—not just as an observer, but as the one who changes everything.
Modern Parallel:
Grief isn’t always about death. It can come from the loss of a job, the end of a relationship, a house fire, or an unexpected diagnosis. Loss in any form has a way of leaving us feeling isolated, as though no one truly understands the weight of what we’re carrying.
The widow in Nain must have felt that way too. Even surrounded by a large crowd, her pain was uniquely her own. Yet Jesus saw her. He noticed her grief, her fear, and her hopelessness—and He acted.
That’s the hope we hold onto: Jesus doesn’t just see the crowd; He sees you. He steps into our losses—whatever they may be—and reminds us we’re never alone. In the moments when life feels unbearable, His presence is our comfort and our lifeline.
Hey, this reminds me – time for a shameless plug for the next Grief Share class that Becky will be guiding.
Reflection:
Grief touches all of us at some point, and it’s in those moments that Jesus reminds us we’re not alone. Think back on times when life felt heavy—did you sense His quiet presence, offering comfort or strength? Perhaps it came through the kindness of a friend, an unexpected word of encouragement, or the peace of a still moment.
As we experience His comfort, we’re also invited to extend it to others. Whether it’s through a listening ear, a thoughtful gesture, or simply being present, we have the opportunity to reflect Christ’s love to those who are hurting. Grief doesn’t always need answers—sometimes just showing up is enough.
Monday Prayer:
Lord, thank You for being near to the brokenhearted and for stepping into our grief with compassion and love. When we are overwhelmed by pain, remind us of Your steady presence and unfailing care. Help us to trust You in our hardest moments and to lean on Your strength. Teach us, too, to be a source of comfort to others, showing Your love through our actions and words.
Amen.
New Testament Reading: Luke 7:11–12
"Soon afterward, Jesus went to a town called Nain, and His disciples and a large crowd went along with Him. As He approached the town gate, a dead person was being carried out—the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. And a large crowd from the town was with her."
Old Testament Parallel: Psalm 34:18
"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."
Connection:
Jesus enters the scene of deep grief and loss, showing that He is not distant from our pain but meets us in it.
Historical Context:
We jump right in with the unimaginable loss of a widower of her only son! Luke does have a flair for getting our attention!
In first-century Jewish society, life for a widow was incredibly difficult. A woman's security and well-being were tied to the men in her family—her husband, her sons, or, in some cases, her extended male relatives. When her husband passed away, she would naturally turn to her children, especially her sons, to provide for her and protect her. Sons were more than just beloved children; they were a widow’s safety net, her future.
For this widow in Nain, the loss of her only son was devastating on every level. It wasn’t just the unbearable grief of burying her child—but without a husband or a son to care for her, she faced a future of poverty and vulnerability.
There were provisions in the Jewish law for widows, like gleaning leftover grain in the fields (as we see in the story of Ruth), but these were not guarantees. Many widows lived on the margins, dependent on the charity of others, often overlooked and forgotten. The first Apostles dealt with this in Acts 6 and it launched a church!
The funeral itself was a deeply communal event. In Jewish tradition, burial happened quickly, often on the same day as the death. The body would have been washed, wrapped in linen, and prepared for burial with oils and perfumes. A procession would then make its way through the town, with family, friends, and neighbors joining in to mourn together. It was a way of honoring the deceased, but also a way of supporting the grieving family.
And it’s here, in the middle of this heartbreak, that Jesus shows up—not just as an observer, but as the one who changes everything.
Modern Parallel:
Grief isn’t always about death. It can come from the loss of a job, the end of a relationship, a house fire, or an unexpected diagnosis. Loss in any form has a way of leaving us feeling isolated, as though no one truly understands the weight of what we’re carrying.
The widow in Nain must have felt that way too. Even surrounded by a large crowd, her pain was uniquely her own. Yet Jesus saw her. He noticed her grief, her fear, and her hopelessness—and He acted.
That’s the hope we hold onto: Jesus doesn’t just see the crowd; He sees you. He steps into our losses—whatever they may be—and reminds us we’re never alone. In the moments when life feels unbearable, His presence is our comfort and our lifeline.
Hey, this reminds me – time for a shameless plug for the next Grief Share class that Becky will be guiding.
First is a “Loss of Spouse” 2-hour session on August 23rd.
Then the 13-week small group class that starts September 11th. These are open for the community not just church members.
Reflection:
Grief touches all of us at some point, and it’s in those moments that Jesus reminds us we’re not alone. Think back on times when life felt heavy—did you sense His quiet presence, offering comfort or strength? Perhaps it came through the kindness of a friend, an unexpected word of encouragement, or the peace of a still moment.
As we experience His comfort, we’re also invited to extend it to others. Whether it’s through a listening ear, a thoughtful gesture, or simply being present, we have the opportunity to reflect Christ’s love to those who are hurting. Grief doesn’t always need answers—sometimes just showing up is enough.
Monday Prayer:
Lord, thank You for being near to the brokenhearted and for stepping into our grief with compassion and love. When we are overwhelmed by pain, remind us of Your steady presence and unfailing care. Help us to trust You in our hardest moments and to lean on Your strength. Teach us, too, to be a source of comfort to others, showing Your love through our actions and words.
Amen.
Tuesday: The Heart of Jesus
New Testament Reading: Luke 7:13
"When the Lord saw her, His heart went out to her and He said, ‘Don’t cry.’"
Old Testament Parallel: Isaiah 49:13
"For the Lord comforts His people and will have compassion on His afflicted ones."
Connection:
Jesus’ compassion is not passive—it moves Him to action. His words, “Don’t cry,” are not just comforting but filled with the promise of hope.
New Testament Reading: Luke 7:13
"When the Lord saw her, His heart went out to her and He said, ‘Don’t cry.’"
Old Testament Parallel: Isaiah 49:13
"For the Lord comforts His people and will have compassion on His afflicted ones."
Connection:
Jesus’ compassion is not passive—it moves Him to action. His words, “Don’t cry,” are not just comforting but filled with the promise of hope.
Wednesday: The Authority of Jesus
New Testament Reading: Luke 7:14
"Then He went up and touched the bier they were carrying him on, and the bearers stood still. He said, ‘Young man, I say to you, get up!’"
Old Testament Parallel: 1 Kings 17:21–22
"Then he stretched himself out on the boy three times and cried out to the Lord, ‘Lord my God, let this boy’s life return to him!’ The Lord heard Elijah’s cry, and the boy’s life returned to him, and he lived."
Connection:
Elijah prayed for God’s power; Jesus speaks with God’s authority. His command to the young man reveals His divine power over life and death.
New Testament Reading: Luke 7:14
"Then He went up and touched the bier they were carrying him on, and the bearers stood still. He said, ‘Young man, I say to you, get up!’"
Old Testament Parallel: 1 Kings 17:21–22
"Then he stretched himself out on the boy three times and cried out to the Lord, ‘Lord my God, let this boy’s life return to him!’ The Lord heard Elijah’s cry, and the boy’s life returned to him, and he lived."
Connection:
Elijah prayed for God’s power; Jesus speaks with God’s authority. His command to the young man reveals His divine power over life and death.
Thursday: Restored to Life
New Testament Reading: Luke 7:15
"The dead man sat up and began to talk, and Jesus gave him back to his mother."
Old Testament Parallel: Psalm 30:11–12
"You turned my wailing into dancing; You removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing Your praises and not be silent. Lord my God, I will praise You forever."
Connection:
The widow’s mourning turns to joy as her son is restored to life. This act is not just a miracle but a restoration of her hope, dignity, and future.
New Testament Reading: Luke 7:15
"The dead man sat up and began to talk, and Jesus gave him back to his mother."
Old Testament Parallel: Psalm 30:11–12
"You turned my wailing into dancing; You removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing Your praises and not be silent. Lord my God, I will praise You forever."
Connection:
The widow’s mourning turns to joy as her son is restored to life. This act is not just a miracle but a restoration of her hope, dignity, and future.
Friday: A Great Prophet Among Us
New Testament Reading: Luke 7:16
"They were all filled with awe and praised God. ‘A great prophet has appeared among us,’ they said. ‘God has come to help His people.’"
Old Testament Parallel: Deuteronomy 18:18
"I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their fellow Israelites, and I will put My words in his mouth. He will tell them everything I command him."
Connection:
The crowd recognizes Jesus as a prophet, fulfilling God’s promise to send someone who would speak and act with His authority.
New Testament Reading: Luke 7:16
"They were all filled with awe and praised God. ‘A great prophet has appeared among us,’ they said. ‘God has come to help His people.’"
Old Testament Parallel: Deuteronomy 18:18
"I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their fellow Israelites, and I will put My words in his mouth. He will tell them everything I command him."
Connection:
The crowd recognizes Jesus as a prophet, fulfilling God’s promise to send someone who would speak and act with His authority.
Saturday: Good News Spreads
New Testament Reading: Luke 7:17
"This news about Jesus spread throughout Judea and the surrounding country."
Old Testament Parallel: Habakkuk 2:14
"For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord as the waters cover the sea."
Connection:
The miracle at Nain serves as a revelation of God’s glory, spreading hope and faith far beyond the immediate crowd.
New Testament Reading: Luke 7:17
"This news about Jesus spread throughout Judea and the surrounding country."
Old Testament Parallel: Habakkuk 2:14
"For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord as the waters cover the sea."
Connection:
The miracle at Nain serves as a revelation of God’s glory, spreading hope and faith far beyond the immediate crowd.
Posted in Pentecost 2025
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