A Note
From Pastor Mark
In this Easter season, we encounter again the powerful witness of Stephen—the first Christian martyr—through the lens of resurrection hope. His story draws us into our Easter theme… The Courage to Stay Close—(Acts 7) to remain near to Christ even when fear, suffering, or uncertainty press in. And as we celebrate Mother’s Day, we recognize this same courage reflected in the quiet, steadfast love of mothers and those who nurture us.
Jesus’ final words on the cross still echo: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” In that moment of deep pain, Jesus chose closeness—close to the Father’s will, close to humanity in compassion, close to a love that remains even in suffering. The resurrection proclaims that this love endures. It is stronger than fear, stronger than loss, stronger than death itself.
Stephen lived in that same love. Shaped by the story of Jesus, he stood with courage before those who accused him. He did not pull away in fear but stayed close—to the truth, to the Spirit, and to the love he had received. Even as stones were raised, Stephen saw Christ standing with him. And in his final breath, he offered forgiveness.
This kind of love—steady, sacrificial, enduring—often mirrors the love we see in mothers. A mother’s love stays close in the long nights, in moments of worry, in sacrifices unseen. It forgives, it hopes, it remains. It reflects the heart of Christ—a love that does not walk away, even when it is hard.
This is the gift of Easter: love that remains becomes love that sustains. We are invited into that same courage—to stay close to God, to one another, and even to those who are difficult to love.
As we once again celebrate Mother’s Day, we give thanks to those who have shown us this kind of love. And we are reminded that, in Christ, we are held in a love that never let’s go.
Where is God calling you to stay close today?
Thankful to be part of the ministry we share at Shepherd of the Prairie!
Pastor Mark
Contact Pastor Mark at: pastormark@sotpmail.com