Weekly Greeting - April 11, 2025
Greetings friends,
If you have never heard of transient global amnesia (GTA) we have something in common. I had never heard of it either until I experienced it last Friday. Stephanie had left the parsonage to run an errand before we were to drive into Nashville to work on our home. However, when she returned to the parsonage, I couldn’t seem to remember we were moving or that I was retiring. Among other things ….That is where the “amnesia” comes in with GTA.
As someone who stands and sings three hours of songs and who preaches 20 minute sermons without looking at a note (usually) it’s pretty scary to have your memory pretty much wiped out.
The good news is that is where “transient” comes in with GTA. It is a transient condition that goes away completely after 24 hours or so. However, it does take a lot out of you; which is maybe where the “global” comes in with the condition.
According to the neurologist who treated me at Williamson Medical Center, my episode was triggered by a severe silent migraine.
Thank you for your patience and for all your prayers. I am so grateful for the staff and especially for Terry for stepping in during my absence last week. I am making a full recovery, but do need to be careful not to get overextended.
I look forward to the time I have remaining as your pastor and celebrating the upcoming Easter season with you. I am very excited about Rev. Dr. Mary Beth Bernheisel’s projection as my successor. She will do an incredible job as your senior pastor. This is a great time to be a part of the Bethlehem United Methodist Church family! Thank you for your continued thoughts and prayers.
Blessings,
Craig
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The final Sunday of the Season of Lent is often called "Palm Sunday." While the celebration of what is often called Jesus' triumphal entry is a huge part of our worship on that day, as we wave palm branches in memory of his arrival into Jerusalem, we also know that those who cried out "Hosanna, blessed be the One who comes in the name of the Lord." would soon be calling out for his crucifixion. Our faith, too, is fickle and our withered palm branches will produce the dust applied to our foreheads next Ash Wednesday.
So it is important to mark the beginning of Jesus’ passion even as we celebrate his entering Jerusalem as our king. As has long been said in the church, there is no way to the empty tomb, except by way of the cross.
I hope that you will come and celebrate Christ's coming into our world on Palm/Passion Sunday. I also encourage you to attend our Maundy Thursday and Good Friday services this Thursday and Friday at 7:00. Invite someone to share the Good News of this holy season and of all that God has done for us in sending Jesus into our world.