Here it comes. Two more weeks. I’m talking about Resurrection Sunday, or Easter as it is commonly called. Before I go any further, please do not take me to task for my use of the word “Easter.” I am well aware of the arguments attempting to link it to pagan worship, but when I say it or write it, I mean what most of you mean; Resurrection Sunday. If “Easter” bothers you, let me know, and I’ll point you to some information that should ease your mind. Meanwhile, we are two weeks away from the day we celebrate THE biggest event in Christianity; the event without which there would BE no Christianity. A sad number of “Christian” churches deny, or place little importance on, the resurrection of Jesus Christ. I would go as far as to say these are not Christian churches at all.
The truth of Christianity stands on the historical fact of the resurrection. If Christ is not raised, our faith is in vain. I have to be honest, I do not personally experience the same visceral excitement and sense of anticipation leading up to Easter as I do for Christmas. I think there are at least two reasons for this. One is simply that I do not welcome the arrival of warmer weather as enthusiastically as I do the arrival of winter. I know it’s shallow, but I simply enjoy the Christmas season more. The other reason is that, in the long story of God’s working His salvation plan, there was a long wait for the appearance of the Messiah. Jesus’ birth was an explosive event, historically speaking, that set things into motion that would lead, ultimately, to His death on the cross, which was necessary for our forgiveness.
Anyway, I didn’t say I shouldn’t feel that same anticipation; simply that I don’t. Here’s the thing, though. Those two events are inextricably linked. If there were no resurrection, Christmas would be meaningless. His birth was important because of who He was and is. Had he not risen from the dead, that would have rendered His life and ministry, even the miracles, ultimately meaningless, because it would mean He was a liar. He made claims about who He was, you know, and he specifically prophesied His death and resurrection more than once. This really is worth celebrating! And somehow, the world knows it. Easter Sunday is the most well attended church meeting of the year, almost without fail. So here’s what you need to do:
Invite somebody. Easter is the perfect opportunity. Polls continue to show that a large number of unchurched people would in fact attend church if somebody would simply invite them. Some still might feel uncomfortable, but Easter can serve as an excuse, if I can use that word. “Hey, Easter is this Sunday; going to church anywhere?” We’ve been praying for growth. We’ve been praying for opportunities. Let’s not be blind to the ones that have always been there. Pray about it, but stretch yourself a bit! Be bold! Look at the “risk” you are taking in the grand scheme of things! They will hear the gospel preached! Your move, church. I look forward to seeing you and your family, neighbors, and co -workers on Easter Sunday.
With you in Christ,
