Today marks the Feast of Julian of Norwich, a name that may draw blank stares in Lutheran pews. Julian wasn’t a bishop, reformer, or founder of a major movement. In fact, she lived most of her adult life enclosed in a small cell attached to a church in 14th-century England. Yet her words have echoed across centuries, inspiring people of all traditions with wisdom that feels especially timely as we prepare to celebrate both Good Shepherd Sunday and Mother’s Day
Julian lived during a brutal time. The Black Death swept through Europe, taking lives by the millions. Political unrest, famine, and the Hundred Years’ War were the headlines of her day. And yet, amid such chaos, Julian received a series of visions—she called them “showings”—of God’s love. Her most famous quote reads: “All shall be well, and all shall be well, and all manner of thing shall be well.” Now that’s optimism. Or, as we might say, faith.
She wasn’t naïve. Julian had seen suffering up close. However, she was convinced that, like a good shepherd tending frightened sheep, God’s love enfolds us even in our darkest valleys—echoing this Sunday’s beloved Psalm 23.
In her writings, Julian frequently referred to Christ with maternal imagery. “As truly as God is our Father,” she wrote, “so truly is God our Mother.” It’s a bold statement, especially for the 1300s! But to Julian, it wasn’t about rewriting theology. It was about expanding our understanding of divine love. Like a mother who stays through the night, holds a fevered child, or whispers reassurance into worry, Julian believed God’s love is tender, nurturing, and unshakably faithful.
This Sunday, we’ll read from John 10, where Jesus calls himself the Good Shepherd, the one who knows his sheep by name and holds them secure in his hand. Julian would nod in agreement. The Shepherd she met in her visions wasn’t distant or judgmental, but intimately present guiding, protecting, and embracing with love stronger than death.
So, as we approach this week of mothers, shepherds, and saints, take a breath. Whatever burdens you carry, whatever worries you nurse—remember Julian’s promise, whispered through time: “All shall be well.”
And if you forget, don’t worry. That’s what the Shepherd—and your church family—are here for. Join us for worship this Sunday, May 11 – Good Shepherd Sunday and Mother’s Day – at 9:30 AM.
Easter Joy!
Pastor Marc
