Pastor’s Corner: “IT IS FINISHED BUT NOT OVER”
One of my most memorable birthdays was when I turned 40. Not because it was more significant than any of my other birthdays or that it was some sort of milestone. It stands out in my memory because my family and I celebrated it over a whole month rather than just one day. We didn’t plan it this way. It just happened that each week of the month something special was planned. My family organized a large surprise birthday party with the whole church and family coming from out of town. We had a small private party with just the immediate family. And we took a five day trip to Houston where we shopped, ate at fun restaurants and went to an Astro’s baseball game. It was amazing! I know what you are thinking: boy, pastor is spoiled, and you are probably right but this does not happen every year (too bad).
I believe we should also treat “Resurrection Sunday” the same way. It certainly should be celebrated more than one day or even a month. Because of the greatness and power of the Gospel that continues to fill us with life, peace, rest and joy, our focus and celebration of Jesus Resurrection should not end. We know it doesn’t end in Heaven. Resurrection Sunday is not done with us yet.
After all, Resurrection Sunday is no longer a ritual to us. It’s a revelation. Even though I know God so loved the world that He gave His son, it can become very individual if we let it. Be personal with Jesus. So, in the midst of a world putting Easter away, might we let it sit with us for just a bit more?
Let us look at scripture where the angel spoke to the woman at the tomb …Matthew 28:5-7 (NIV)- “The angel said to the women, ‘Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples: “He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.” Now I have told you.'” We can see six prayers to help this miraculous “Resurrection Sunday” to be personal, prayerful and linger a bit longer.
- “Do not be afraid,”– God, I hand over to You those things that make me so afraid. Resurrect the parts of my faith squelched by fear.
- “I know that you are looking for Jesus,”– God, when my soul is searching, help me know the answer to every longing can be found in You.
- “He has risen,”– God, the fact that Jesus is risen should lift my head, my heart and my attitude. Help me to live today as if I really believe this with every part of my life.
- “just as he said,”– Jesus, You keep Your promises. Help me live as though I believe that with every part of me. Help me trust You more, obey You more and resemble You more.
- “Come and see,”– Jesus, You had the angels invite the women in to see for themselves that You had risen. You invite me into these personal revelations every day. Forgive me for sometimes rushing about and forgetting to come and see for myself … You, Your Word, Your insights.
In His Grace,
Pastor Hamilton and Family