Easter

It seems like a lot of people I've talked to in the past few weeks are struggling.  Pastors and lay people alike are struggling with the economy, relationships, job security, health issues and a host of other issues.  Some are exhausted from the constant stress; a few are about ready to give up.  Some remind me of the disciples after they witnessed Jesus' death on the cross.  They just want to get away, lock the doors behind them, and avoid any further problems.  Life hasn't worked out the way they hoped, and they just want to withdraw and escape any more pain.

You pastors probably already have your Easter messages prepared, but I do hope your message will offer hope to the hurting people who will attend your services.  The story of Christ's resurrection is a story of hope.  The Son of God is alive forevermore and wants to dwell within every man, woman, and child who will receive Him.  To those who will call out to Him He promises to hear.  Furthermore, He promises that He will never leave us nor forsake us no matter what we may experience in this life.  Some of the paths we walk on earth are dark and uncertain, but what hope it brings to know that our Lord is with us on those paths!  This is the Sunday to remind your listeners how precious they are in the sight of God and of the unconditional love God has for each of us.

I would also encourage you to listen to your own messages this Sunday.  I've talked to a number of pastors recently carrying a lot of pain in their own lives.  They need to be reminded of the hope found in the story of Easter, and when I write "they" I really mean all of us.  It's easy for any of us to forget sometimes that God's love isn't reserved for those pastors who are doing great things for the Kingdom of God or for those who seem to have it all together in their lives.  Unconditional love is just that...unconditional.  God has chosen to love us even when we are not very loveable.

If you are struggling in some areas of your life right now, please remember you are not alone.  God is with you in the midst of your struggles and doubts.  He is ready to listen anytime you want to talk to Him.  So am I.  Friends, whether you are bivocational, fully-funded, or a lay person, please know I care about you, your ministries, your families, and your struggles.  Feel free anytime to contact me.  I'll be more than glad to pray with you and to encourage you any way I can. 

Until we meet again, have a most blessed Easter weekend.