Dear Holy Trinity Family,
A Happy and Blessed Easter to each of you!
Yes, this Easter was different but as believers we still worship and rejoice in the Risen Lord.
Some of you have said that you have read all four Gospel accounts of the crucifixion and resurrection of our Lord and Savior, each slightly different but with the same theme. I believe this shows that the disciples did not sit around together and contrive a “story” of Jesus’ last days and resurrection. Jesus’ followers stayed close to Him during the last days, albeit mainly women by the Gospel accounts who showed their love by their very presence. Can you imagine the intense grief and fear felt by His disciples and followers during and after His crucifixion and death? Grief is such a powerful emotion, but when Mary Magdalene heard her name spoken by Jesus her grief soon turned into immense joy!
Have you experienced the immense joy of knowing Jesus as your Savior? “O God, you are my God, I seek you; my soul thirsts for you . . . (Psalm 63:1) When was the last time you sought your Savior? He rose from the grave to conquer death for us so we could have a relationship with God and know that we can have eternal life!
So, yes, our worship this Easter was different, but our Lord and Saviorremains the same. Hebrews reminds us of this, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (Hebrew 13:8) The same Jesus whom Mary Magdalene knew before His resurrection appeared to her in the garden. When He spoke her name she recognized Him. His outward physical appearance had not changed. Having been freed from her grief, with joy and excitement she shared the good news with the disciples “I have seen the Lord.” (John 20:18) Our relationship with Jesus brings freedom and joy into our lives. We can and do celebrate His resurrection and share the good news, He lives! But there’s more good news. Jesus said, “Because I live, you too shall live.” (John 14:19)
Our plans at present are tentative, but our first Sunday back for worship will be our on-site Easter service with our powerful Schantz pipe organ and our talented praise team leading each of our happy and joyful voices praising our Risen Savior. The following Sunday will be a Service of Thanksgiving to our almighty and powerful God for his steadfast love and mercy. How wonderful it will be to finally worship together, something that we will no longer take for granted.
Please continue to view our abbreviated worship services on the church’s website and Facebook. I continue to receive encouraging words regarding my communications with you through weekly letters and online worship services. I appreciate your encouragement and care. “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him.” (Romans 15:13)
Continue in His Word and your daily devotions and please remember your fellow members in prayer and communication.
In Christ’s love,
Your Pastor and Friend,
Pentti Maki