Notes from Yukiko’s Desk

Dear AGAC whanau,

I trust you are enjoying the beginning of the beautiful season of Autumn! I feel rested and refreshed while taking several days off. I didn’t go away, but I spent a lot of time in the garden where we moved in several weeks ago. We also walked tracks just behind our new home. As I love exploring natural wonders, I feel so blessed that I am able to do that in our neighbourhood! One of the highlights in living in Albany for me is autumn trees. Simply by driving through the streets or walking around, we are able to experience the serene beauty of changing seasons around here. I thank God for calling us in this place. I bet you know what I mean!

In this change of seasons, it may be a time of new beginnings, I also realised that oftentimes the news tells us a different story. When I watch what is happening in the world right now, I feel as if we remained in the tomb instead of celebrating Jesus’ resurrection. While we may admit transformation is slowly happening in new ways, it’s still so easy to dwell in Good Friday.

That said, as I was reflecting on the current news through the lens of the gospel passage of last Sunday, I found hope and comfort. I was reminded that when Jesus walked on the road to Emmaus with his followers, he truly shared their pain and sorrow.

He didn’t try to change how they were feeling, but rather asked questions about what they were carrying. And the good news is that Jesus still walks with us today. He walks with nations at war: Iran, Sudan, and with Palestine. On the road, Jesus is very much concerned with the vulnerable women and gently asked them to share their stories. Stories of Forth Sunday of Easter 26 04 2026 Year Athe hurt, betrayal and violence. It is in the breaking of bread, that Jesus’ disciples recognise Christ and ask, “were not our hearts burning within us?” As Jesus appeared to Thomas who once doubted whether the resurrection was true, so Jesus also walks with us in our doubts. He surely walks with the people of Ukraine as they doubt whether the Easter Truce will really stick especially as there have already been more than 2,000 ceasefire violations with Russia. And to the people of Hungary who are uncertain of what the post-election will bring, He says, “Peace be with you.” For the disciples who felt that their leader was still dead even as he was walking right beside them, and for us, who wonder where is God when school shootings take place. Jesus still show up and says, “I’m right here with you in this mess.”

Eastertide this year may not seem all that joyful, but still, we know that we can trust in the One who cares for us. Hear our pleas, and listens to our hearts’ longings. When we are filled with doubt, fear, and confusion, come in and help us to hear, “I’m  walking beside you, I feel your hearts burning, and I offer you my companionship.” He is truly our good shepherd. May you experience that in your own life.

Yukiko

  
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