First off, we’re all keeping our friends Brett & Emily Gauthier in our prayers– Emily’s brother, Matt, died yesterday. I’m reminded of how many times I’ve been close to tragedy or had friends and acquaintances who’ve suffered unexpected losses in their family. From the Columbine shootings, to peer suicides, to untimely diseases taking people, I sometimes think of how strange it is that I’ve been near death so often at the young age of 27, while a lot of people I’ve met have never had these types of events in their lives at all.
The perspective I’m always hoping to find is one of deeper clarity concerning the hope afforded to me in my faith. While Christian hope often reduces or simplifies the issues to “heaven” and “life after death”, anyone who has dealt in death (despite faith!) knows its not nearly so simple and clear. Death remains somewhat mystery despite what hope I find in Jesus. I’m willing to stand in that paradox! Noted New Testament scholar and Bishop NT Wright recently wrote a book called “Surprised by Hope” in which he unpacks some of the misunderstandings about hope within Christianity. His ultimate belief is that our hope beyond death as Christians may surprise us. I have to admit I’m still working through this book (he’s not the lightest writer!), but I find the issue very interesting! Below are 2 interviews Wright gave a short interview about the book. The first, a lighter one with Stephen Colbert. The second (available by link only), on ABC’s Nightline. (Which, despite some funky editing choices, is worth a watch.)
We love you Emily, and hope you & your family sense our prayers and find some hope amidst loss!
