Unexpected

Dear Church,

 I have always loved Easter. I love springtime and flowers. I love spending time with family discussing the Easter story. I love hearing my Dad pray over our family, our community, and our country. Easter is a very special time for so many reasons. But this year will stand out to me for years to come.

First, the AC went out. And it was HOT. Mom had been preparing food off and on for a few days, and the oven had been heating the house. The deviled eggs were ‘melting’ and the cheesecake was a little bit soft. But then God blessed us with cooler weather and we were able to enjoy Easter with the breeze blowing through the open windows. It was a strong reminder of the things we are blessed with, the things we take for granted. What could have ‘ruined’ Easter ended up enhancing our experience. Instead of being miserable at a ‘ruined’ Easter lunch, we were blessed with abundant joy!

Second, I was able to spend time with a good friend and really dig into what Easter is all about; what the cross means to us, what the purpose of the resurrection is. As I prayed and asked God for wisdom and guidance in how to best lead this friend into deeper knowledge of the Easter story, it was revealed to me in a new, fresh light, one that brought the peace we both needed in our lives. It was a very humbling experience and I am so grateful that God allowed me to be a part of it. I am very blessed to have friends in my life who push me to grow and dig deeper into my faith, while helping them to do the same. This Easter the redemptive love of Christ was refreshed in my spirit.

I could choose to remember this Easter as  ‘The year the AC went out’, but instead I am choosing remember this Easter as ‘The year I remembered I am forgiven”.
 
Blessings, 
Pastor Sarah