“My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. – John 17:20-21

Wednesday evening I enjoyed the privilege of giving the fourth talk in the 2025 Lenten Lecture Series at HMPC. This time the video equipment decided to work well so I can share the link with you if you’re interested in what I said.

There has been a good crowd of folk gracious enough to attend, and they offer such a generous spirit of acceptance and receptivity that I am encouraged every time I get up to speak.

This week the overarching theme was the question, “What does it take to set a heart free?”

Then another key idea is the relationship between “knowing” and “love.” I argue that real love is close to impossible unless we allow ourselves to be deeply known.

And that is the mission God entrusts us with as disciples, as The Church; it’s the mission to – as Jesus puts it – “make the love of God known.”

If you have time, I believe you will enjoy this video of Wednesday evening’s lecture. I have it cued up to begin with our opening song.

I am grateful for the opportunity I have to share, and I pray that it blesses you as you continue your journey toward Easter.

Jesus: “So that the world will believe that you have sent me…”

– DEREK