Holy Week and hard times

I think is from last year. I don't know about some of the theology of these reporters, but I liked the story.

It may be that tough times are helping even American Protestant Christians to see that there can be special grace and growth as we pass through times of pain and hardship: we can use them for godliness, as opportunities to "share in the sufferings of Christ" (Phil. 3:10) and learn to show forth the same virtues - humility, patience, holy submission, forgivness - that Jesus exemplified and perfected that first Holy Week.

The Church also, as this pastor points out, has a remarkable opportunity to reach out in these times of hardship when people are in need - and more aware of their limitations.

Almighty God, you sent your Son, our Savior Jesus Christ, to suffer death on the cross. Grant that we may share in his obedience to your will and in the glorious victory of his resurrection; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and ever. Amen. (United Methodist Hymnal 281)