Catching Up

I had meant to post something way before now but life is somewhat of a blur. Let me start by talking about Easter! It was absolutely FABULOUS.

We decided to step out of our Comfort zone and do something completely different. It was brave, bold and exciting. We had the basement of the Church set up in different Stations that represented various things. Then we placed two "Gaurds" at the front door, named Fear and Doubt, (two BIG guys) and they would direct everyone to the Basement and not allow anyone into the Sanctuary. (Yes, as a Pastor, it is as scary as it sounds to not allow people in :<) )

The Stations that were set up in the Basement focused on several things. The first, focused on being a Captive/Slave/Prisoner. At one point you would look into a mirror that had prison bars painted on it and you were to think of whatever it is that imprisons you. You would then write that/those things down on a piece of paper and fashion into a bracelet/chain to wear around your wrist.

The next Station focused on THE PRICE. It talked about the National debt and about the average Credit Card debt in the U.S. And then what would you be willing to pay to lose the chains around your wrist. It then went into how Jesus paid the price for our Freedom.

The next station focused upon our WEAPONS and how we need a weapon to break free. We had Hebrews 4:12 on pieces of paper and would instruct everyone that they would need this sword to get into the Sanctuary.

The next station focused upon the CROSS and the power of the Cross. We then had some simple sticks there that everyone could pick up and fashion into a Cross.

Then groups of people would come up the Stairs with their Sword and their Cross and Fear and Doubt would move aside! In entrance to the Sanctuary we had a larger Cross that everyone would spend a moment at and then ripp off the chains that they wore and let them fall.

The imagery and power of it was quite moving and as they worked their way into the Sanctuary I was there encouraging them to break through. It did take some time to work everyone through the process but it was the time we usually allot to our Praise and Worship.

I then went directly into my Easter Sermon which focused on Freedom. I used several examples of our Countries history and how things changed when good men "stood up." It encompassed the founding of our Nation, the freeing of Slaves, the Civil rights movement, (especially pointing out how at one time an Oppressor would tell people which lines to stand in, etc. etc.) and how people like Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King Jr. chose to stand up in the face of their oppressers regardless of the price.

I then went into how we have all been under the hand of an Oppressor and that we have been in the bondage of Sin. How the Oppressor would tell us that we belong in lines of addictions, depression and destitution. But a man came along that began to speak of being free from the Oppressor and dared to speak of abundant life. The Oppressor set out to stop him, finally killing him on a Cross. The Oppressor thought he had won until this same man took back the keys, and on the third day this Man STOOD UP!

If I might say, it was a powerful message for and incredible day. We then had Communion, a presentation from our children, a living Video and a rocking song that celebrated our Freedom. It was an awesome day! We had 82 in attendance which was not as many as I had hoped for but a great crowd just the same.

A lot of hard work went into it from many faithful people and for that, I thank them. Most people "got it" and a few probably didn't but one thing it wasn't, was boring!

I promise to write more this weekend. I appreciate everyone that looks in. Be blessed!