We are entering the story, placing ourselves in dialogue with Jesus. What a thrill it is to be face to face with Jesus. What a joy to be in his presence, hearing his word, receiving his instruction.

Yet, what we discover is that, like those in these stories, we are often off track, often misunderstanding, and often letting our own desires get in the way of hearing the word he has for us. It is . . . funny. Let’s admit it: our humanness is funny. In the end, we are laughing at ourselves. We are embracing with humility and with joy the overwhelming grace of God that continues to surprise us with hospitality and opportunity.

Every encounter with Jesus brings transformation. At the very least, we see ourselves in a new light, in all our humanness. And we can either weep or laugh. When we weep, we might pull into ourselves and run away from the source of pain and shame. But if we can laugh, then we might be able to stay and find healing and a new way of being alive in the world.

Through these encounters, these face-to-face moments that individuals and groups had with Jesus here in the Gospel of Luke, we can find a way to new life and new hope if we’re willing to be honest with ourselves and with him.

Following are some hymn and song suggestions that relate specifically to the scripture and theme of this worship series.

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