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| The Easter PrincipleIt seems to me that one of the lessons of Easter is that whatever we give to God, we get back (often miraculously transformed) in greater measure. Jesus gave his earthly life to God. After his death, he was raised to eternal life. Jesus' followers gave their trust to God made visible in Jesus. In time, they received the assurance that God is always with us, whether we can see God or not. Joseph of Arimathea gave his burial spot to God's representative (Jesus). He got it back again, along with the great news that death is not the end of our story. The Easter Principle works in all kinds of situations. I have noticed, for example, that when I give God a little time at the beginning of the day (for scripture reflection and prayer), my day goes more smoothly and I am much more likely to have time to accomplish necessary things. When I remember to give thanks and praise to God, it often happens that I am also blessed to have someone express appreciation to me. People who engage in service projects often say that they receive more than they give, and I have had that experience myself. Even when it comes to money, I find that giving financially to Christ's ministry through the church causes me to credit God for the fact that I and my family have enough money each month to meet our needs (though not necessarily to supply everything we could manage to dream up)! It isn't always easy to give to God whether time, talent, trust, thanks, or material goods. If it was easy, I guess we would always do it. Giving our hearts, or lives, or resources, or loved ones to God often requires us to overcome fear, suspicion, doubt, anxiety, and years of ingrained messages telling us we have only ourselves to rely on. It isn't easy, but as Jesus once said, "What might be impossible for human beings IS possible for God." (Luke 18:26) If we ask, God will help us. Easter is a season when many people become open to seeking God's presence in their lives. At church, we usually welcome many guests and visitors this time of year. I hope that, in honor of God's presence in YOUR life, you will consider giving of yourself and your time to make others feel at home with us. I encourage you to consider the many opportunities listed in this newsletter. You could attend the Meeters and Greeters Club; help the youth supply the Easter pancake breakfast; bring some colored eggs for the Easter bunny to hide; volunteer to stand at the door and welcome people for one worship service this month; sing in the choir; visit the Wednesday Night Ministry; park at US Bank and walk from there to worship. The possibilities are many. You will be blessed for whatever you are able to give. Thanks be to God for the season of Easter, which reminds us so powerfully that when we give ourselves to God, we place ourselves in the care of the most loving, life-giving power there is. With you in Christ's service, Pastor April |
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