Easter Statement of Hope and Renewal (03/27/'24) -Statement

Easter Statement of Hope and Renewal In this season of Easter, we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, a moment that marks not only the cornerstone of our faith but also a time of renewal and boundless hope. As the winter recedes and gives way to the spring, so does the Easter story remind us of the transformative power of divine love and grace in our lives. God's profound mercy and love, as revealed to us through the message of Ephesians 2:4–7, show that even in times of spiritual desolation, we are made alive together with Christ. It is through grace that we have been saved, elevated to a place of honor beside Him in the heavenly realms, to be recipients of the immeasurable riches of His kindness for ages to come. The narrative of 2 Corinthians 5:14–21 further enriches our understanding of Easter by illuminating the depth of Christ's love and the essence of His sacrifice. Christ died for all, so that we might live lives not centered on ourselves but dedicated to Him who died and rose for us. This scripture invites us to see ourselves and each other as new creations in Christ—the old gone, the new come. We are called to be ambassadors of this reconciliation, sharing the good news that in Christ, God reconciled the world to Himself, offering forgiveness and a fresh start to all. As we observe Easter, let us meditate on these truths and the promise they hold for our lives. May the love of Christ motivate us to live in a manner that reflects His grace. Let us celebrate the resurrection by committing to being agents of love, reconciliation, and hope within our communities and the wider world. This Easter, may your heart be filled with the peace, joy, and the renewing power of God's love. Pastor Steven G. Lee (March 27, 2024)