Here we are in the middle of Holy Week and who would have guessed that this would be the first time in church history that Christians around the world would not be able to assemble in church buildings to observe together the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Though we may be isolated from one another physically, we don’t need to be spiritually. Keep in mind, “nothing can separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus.”
On this Holy Thursday evening I’m writing regarding three things:
· Three Great Reminders
· The Good Friday Broadcast
· The 5-Minute Easter Challenge
Three Great Reminders
Another day has passed in this temporary new normal. Much fear and frustration fills so many. The only way we’ll not be consumed by the news and uncertainty is to keep our focus upon God. Here are three great reminders that God cares for us:
He loves us! “Nothing can separate us from the love God has for us.” (Romans 8:39) God has lavished His love upon us through Jesus Christ. Keep yourself reminded that His love endures forever! (John 3:16; 1 John 3:1, 4:16, etc. Many, many more Scriptures emphasize the love God has for us.
He is with us! Prior to Jesus ascension to Heaven He reminded the disciples that He would be with them until the very end of the age, and both, the Old and New Testament’s assure us of His commitment to never leave us or forsake us. (Deuteronomy 31:8; Hebrews 13:5)
He is praying for us! It is a phenomenal thought, Jesus Christ himself prays for you and me. His daily intercession for us is almost too good to be true . . . but it is true. Jesus prays every day for each of us. (Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:25; 1 John 2:1)
Take time to meditate upon these three great reminders. You will find yourself spiritually and emotionally refreshed.
The Good Friday Broadcast
Tomorrow evening we will commemorate the death of the Lord Jesus Christ by live streaming an intimate Good Friday observance I am hosting with my wife, Rosemary, and worship leader, Rick Riso. By using your computer, tablet, or phone you will be able to access the church’s YouTube channel by clicking on the following link. We will be live from 6:00-7:00 p.m. Here’s the link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXIQXE7bL42ujTR5lnSodow
The Five-Minute Easter Challenge
This coming Sunday we celebrate Jesus Christ’s resurrection from the dead. It is the biggest day of all time! And because it’s such big deal, I would love to challenge you. That’s right; I want to challenge you! Here’s my 5-minute challenge to you.
Take 1 minute to make a list of a few people that need to be part of Easter this Sunday – people who normally don’t go to church . . . family, friends, neighbors, co-workers.
Take 1 minute to pray for each of them by name asking God to open their heart to Jesus Christ.
Take 3 minutes using email, text, or Facebook/Instagram to invite them to our Easter service by using the link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXIQXE7bL42ujTR5lnSodow Be sure to include the link. Here’s a sample of what you can use; cut and paste it. Or write your own invitation. And did I mention, make sure to include the link. Here’s my SAMPLE:
This Sunday, celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ and discover how to have a life-changing encounter with Him. Tune in to hear “Reasons to Believe in Jesus’ Resurrection.” You’ve got nothing better to do. The online service begins at 10:00 a.m. on Sunday. Here’s the link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXIQXE7bL42ujTR5lnSodow
In five minutes you can make a difference . . . hopefully for eternity! Will you do your part and let God do His part. And if you would like me to pray for the people you are inviting, email me the first names of those on your list.
I’m praying for you!
–Pastor John