Matthew 28:1-10; Revelation 1:1-8
Jesus is Risen! He is Risen Indeed! Today we not only celebrate the reality of Jesus’ resurrection, we also focus on the history-altering implications of this incredible event. As many of you know, this past year I had opportunity to visit Turkey and see the remains of many sites where the Early Church found its footing in the latter part of the first century. When asked about my greatest takeaway, I quickly respond with how difficult this context must have been for those early believers. The ancient remains in this part of the world point to a powerful empire and religious systems arrayed against a faith that proclaimed Jesus as true Messiah and Lord. Yet, the empire is now in ruins and the pagan faith it worshiped is now the subject of mythology classes. Christianity however, has grown from small beginnings to become a worldwide movement. To me, this would not have been possible had Christianity not been built on any other foundation than the reality of the Risen Christ. Today we’ll look at how the book of Revelation presents a picture of Christ alive and active amid all the challenges faced by His early followers and see that His presence and truth remain absolutely relevant as we navigate our current challenges today.
Apply
- How has the reality of the Risen Christ impacted your life? Where do you need to welcome power and presence of the Risen Christ in your life today?
- Ask God to work in your heart and in the hearts of all who will be attending our services on-line or in person today.
Pray
- Pray that those who are new to the church will be welcomed and find meaningful relationships.
- Pray for our Children’s Ministry Pastor, Jerilyn Bayer
- Pray for the Children’s Ministry Associate, Annette Faszer, and for the Children’s Ministry Assistants: Abigail, Amelia, Blythe, Clarissa, Domina, Jenna, Sarah, and Sunita.