“Why is it thought incredible by any of you that God raises the dead?” Acts 26:8
THE FOOLISHNESS OF THE CROSS AND RESURRECTION
The foundation of Christianity is the resurrection of Jesus. Three days after being beaten, tortured, and executed by crucifixion, Jesus was raised to life by the power of God. The tomb containing his body on Friday was empty on Sunday. Angels announced his resurrection to the stunned women in the garden, “Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen.” Over the next 40 days he personally, physically met with his disciples and was seen by many who knew him, even appearing to more than 500 people at once!
Still, many consider the resurrection foolishness. Some claim it was a conspiracy inspired by desperate religious fanatics. If so, then why did 11 of the 12 “fanatics” die martyr’s deaths knowing the resurrection was a lie? Others claim the resurrection is a myth that has grown over the centuries. If so, then explain why this “myth” stormed onto world history within a matter of days among those who knew Jesus best. Still others believe Jesus’ death was a misdiagnosis. The professional Roman execution crew mistakenly thought he was dead and Jesus later recovered consciousness and escaped from the tomb. If so, then how could this “misdiagnosed” man, wrecked by days of torture, summon the strength to move the massive tomb stone and appear completely healthy to his disciples that same day? In this case his disciples might have considered him Houdini – but definitely not Christ the Lord.
No, church, the cross and resurrection are not foolishness. The explanation is not found in a conspiracy, a myth, or a misdiagnosis. It is found here: Jesus was dead and is now alive. Why should anyone think this is so incredible? If God is god, then he can do this! In fact, he has!
RESURRECTION SUNDAY WORSHIP OUTDOORS
This Resurrection Sunday (Easter) we will be meeting again outside at 10:30 AM. The forecast is for perfect spring weather. Do you have a someone close to you who considers the resurrection to be foolishness? Invite them to come with you to witness the presence of God in the gathering of Christ’s church and hear the greatest news in the world – firsthand.
Immediately following the service there will be an egg hunt for the kids (from toddlers up to 5th grade). There will also be a photo booth available for family pictures (use your own camera).
RECONNECTING WITH YOUR CHURCH
Last year we were not able to gather on Easter due to COVID shelter-in-place requirements. While concerns remain and care is needed, much more is known now about how to safely meet and navigate COVID concerns. Meeting outside allows us to meet as one assembly while also providing limitless fresh air and space for social distancing. Even our most careful members, family, and friends can attend these outdoor gatherings if they are of a mind to do so. Great effort is being extended each Sundays to create an outdoor space where all the church and a great number of guests can be present.
I want to be careful here to recognize that some do have legitimate justifications for continuing to sheltering-in-place. If you fall in this category, we love you and are praying for you. However, at one time or another I expect we have each experienced the temptation to stay separated from the church. I have. You have. COVID has provided us all with the convenient excuse, at times, to forgo participation with the church. As your pastor, I want to lovingly warn you to beware of the temptation to remain separate. Satan will whisper a lie in your ear that your sinful nature will embrace, “church is dangerous.”
Just as pain medication is needed following surgery, so too temporary separation from the church has been needed at times this past year. Yet, just as long-term use of pain medications can become addicting, life-altering, and deadly, so too, ongoing separation from the the body of Christ is spiritually dangerous and habit-forming. Only you know your heart and your motives. If separation is not necessary and has become an unhealthy pattern for you, then repent and return to your church this week. If one can now go to work or school; if one can now play sports, attend a game, or workout at the gym; if one can now go shopping at Walmart, Lowes, Kroger, and Kohls - then one should now also be gathering with the church each Sunday. Continue following our COVID gathering guidelines - but be with your church.
RESUMING OUR NORMAL SCHEDULE
Finally, we plan to return to our normal Sunday/Wednesday schedule on Sunday, April 18. I trust by that date most of our church member will be able and willing to return to equipping courses, community groups, kids, and student ministries. Please see the announcement below for more information.
For His Glory,
Pastor Thomas
