Pastor Shane St Reynolds Steps Back into the Pulpit: The Journey of Restoration – Seeking Christ in the Darkness

In this sermon, Shane explores the theme of restoration through the journey of the Magi, as depicted in T.S. Eliot’s poem The Journey of the Magi, and in Scripture.

The Magi’s arduous path mirrors our own spiritual journey—restoration doesn’t begin in comfort, but in the struggle and sacrifice of seeking Christ. This journey involves the willingness to leave behind what is familiar, to traverse unknown lands, and to offer our gifts in worship. Shane draws on the rich words of the prophets in Jeremiah, the letters in Ephesians, and the profound gospel message in John, to highlight how Christ offers not just a cosmic restoration, but a deeply personal healing. Through Him, we are not only healed of our brokenness but invited into a renewed world of hope, light, and love.

As the Magi followed the star toward Christ, so too are we called to follow the light of Christ into our own places of darkness and uncertainty. Restoration, Shane reflects, is a process that requires deep faith and openness to the transformative power of God’s love. In our brokenness, we find the light that heals; in our struggles, we discover the depths of grace that restore us.

After the sermon, Shane gives a brief talk on the work of Kittredge Cherry and the story of Saint Wilgefortis, weaving in his exploration of queer theology.

Saint Wilgefortis, often depicted as a figure who defies societal norms and expectations, serves as a profound reminder that Christ’s love is radical, inclusive, and transformative. Shane emphasizes the importance of embracing both the beauty and the struggle of our unique identities. Just as Saint Wilgefortis’ story is one of resilience and empowerment, so too are we called to embrace our own stories and offer them back to Christ in a journey of continual restoration.

Reflecting on queer theology, Shane invites us to explore the ways in which Christ meets us in our marginalized and often painful places, affirming the sacredness of all identities. Restoration is not about conforming to an idealized version of ourselves, but about fully embracing who we are, knowing that God’s love transcends all human categories and limitations.

The sermon and reflections today challenge us all to seek Christ in the darkness of our lives and to offer Him our brokenness, trusting that He will lead us into the light of restoration.