We experienced yesterday what probably most churches in America experienced-a swell in attendance. It was good to see. Honestly, I used to “pick” at those who are called C & E Christians. That’s Christmas and Easter for those of you who may not know.
Not any more. I am glad just to see people. There are several reasons for that:
- With the advent and further use of live streaming, many who were there yesterday watch each week from home. It was good to see them, but I know they are “attending” by watching.
- There were some who were there because mom or dad invited them. Yeah for mom and dad! 🙂
- There were some who were there because a friend saw an opportunity to use the open door of a holiday.
- There were some who were there because some traumatic event has happened and they are trying to make sense of it all and are searching for answers.
- There were some who may have been there out of curiosity.
I love the last 4 especially because it is an opportunity to give them hope by talking about the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. I may only get this one shot to share the love of Jesus with them.
Resurrection Sunday also gives another conundrum. What about next Sunday? Let’s shorten the time frame. What about today or tomorrow? Will we go back to life as usual or will we allow the truth, the life-changing experience of the resurrection to change the way we live and operate our daily lives? Christian writer, Sam Allberry wrote: “Many Christians, while believing in the resurrection and rehearsing that belief every Easter Sunday, effectively stick it back in the drawer for the rest of the year because they are at a loss of what to do with it.” (Quoted in Hope in Times of Stress by Timothy Keller- p.xxi)
That is a seriously important quote to consider. All the talk, all the sermons, all the banter about the Resurrection is meaningless if life is not different on the inside.
Take on the challenge to allow the truth of the Resurrection to change how you operate-with God and with people.
Dick always says we need to give it our best on these special holidays because it is one of the few shots we have to reach some folks. In a world that makes no sense and leaves us hopeless, we need the Lifeline that Jesus offers.
Very true Pam. That Dick must be a wise man. 🙂
It is encouraging in some ways to see the “swell”. There is always Hope, there will continue to be grace. My prayer is that Sunday left an impression and a desire to want more. It is a good gut check of self as well. I know I spent the morning mostly focused on the tasks that needed to be done. There were moments where I could slow down and focus on the real reason for the day and to celebrate life, but those moments were short.
Sunday mornings in general and “Big Event” days specifically leave me a bit drained. There is a satisfaction that comes with knowing things came together and people’s lives were changed, even if just for a moment and even if just a little.
Thinking of the challenge you raise… allowing the truth of the Resurrection change how I operate with God and with people… The phrase sacrifice to bring life. Jesus didn’t just to show up after His resurrection. Jesus brought Hope and Life to all He interacted with.
Sunday mornings and “big event” days leave you drained. I could say the same but Sunday mornings are my bread and butter. 🙂 I was tired after yesterday’s “big day” but not so tired I could not go for a bike ride. LOL But sacrifice is a good word to use.
I pray that the seeds you planted in those hearts (regardless of what reason they were there to hear your words) will germinate & grow & bring forth much fruit. The sower never knows what type of ground the seed will fall on, but there is always that hope that at least some of it will fall on good ground. May God let you see great reward for your faithfulness, Pastor Bill!
I too pray for those seeds to be planted and find root, Cheryl. Thanks for the comment and God has already given me far more than i deserve.
“The Big Day” may have come and gone, Bill, but may it live forever in our hearts, minds and lives.
Blessings, my friend, and it’s good to be back!
Thanks Martha and it is good to have you back. I hope you had a fantastic time with your family. I look forward to hearing about it.
Father, allow the truth of who You are, how deep Your love is, how big Your grace is, and who we can become by allowing You to do Your work in our lives, to skink so deep inside ourselves that we cannot contain it. Help us to take the story of Salvation, and our own story to people outside of our own circles. What Jesus did on the Cross, is so amazing, and it can change so many lives, we should want everyone we meet to know that story, help us to share it without ceasing.
Great prayer Gail. And to know how deep His love is and how deep His grace is is for all of us. Me especially.