Dear First Pres,
Christ is risen! He is risen, indeed! And, indeed, it was a wonderful day together on Sunday. Whether you joined the service in-person or online, I pray you experienced the powerful presence of the Holy Spirit. Huge kudos go out to all the musicians (your music was amazing), greeters and ushers (so many commented on the warm hospitality), techies (lights, sound, screens, live stream – wow), courtyard hosts (my goodness, did you see the food?!?) and all the rest who helped make the morning so glorious.
Mainly, praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ who has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. I know that the Lord was at work in the midst of our gathering because I’ve already heard from many how He was moving in their hearts.
But now, it’s Thursday. Has the hope of Sunday worn off? Has your soul already forgotten the stirring of the Holy Spirit? Are you living the living hope of our Risen Christ?
If Sunday is already feeling a bit distant, I encourage you to do two things. First, I encourage you to plan to be in worship (in-person or online) this Sunday. It’s going to be a very special day for our church as some of our youth are making a public proclamation of their faith in Christ as they become members of our congregation. It may not have all the fanfare and food of Easter morning, but I know you’ll be encouraged by our time together. Second, I encourage you to go back and watch some or all of the Easter service on our YouTube page. Just like photos can stir our souls with special memories, the recordings of our worship services can be an ongoing encouragement as well. Was there a song that especially touched your heart? Was there a point in the sermon that stirred your soul? Was there a prayer that resonated? Was there a moment that gave you a smile? Go back and watch it again. Worship is one of the main ways that we learn to live the living hope of Christ.
If you’re struggling with hope today, take some time to worship the risen and reigning Jesus.
Blessings,
Pastor Jeremy
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