Easter: Pause the Busyness

by Pastor Chris Kumpula

Is your family busy this Easter?

Easter is one of the most significant celebrations in the Christian calendar, marking the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. Churches experience a surge in activity during this time as they prepare opportunities aimed at commemorating Jesus' last week on earth and celebrating the resurrection. Holy Week is filled with numerous observances that commemorate the events leading to the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. From Palm Sunday to Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, churches remember the journey of Jesus through both participation and contemplation. In the busyness of Tioga work and school life, it's easy to forget what this week is about. We recognize many find themselves attending services out of obligation or tradition rather than a genuine desire to engage with the profound themes of sacrifice, redemption, and resurrection of the Savior.

Do you take what's truly important for granted?

To counteract this tendency to overlook the spiritual significance of Holy Week and Resurrection Sunday, we use patterns of observance both old and new. Setting aside time to prepare our hearts for receiving the body and blood of Jesus Christ in repentance and faith has literally been done by Christians from the beginning. This gift for the nourishment of our faith is for all who have been baptized in God's name and placed their trust in Him. This communion service is part of the ancient pattern of Christians preparing for the Day of Resurrection. We also encourage new patterns of healthy family life in the congregation to ensure that disciples young and old can experience this season together and pass it on to the next generation.

Do you stop to remember the words that matter for eternity?

What matters most in our life together as a church is remembering the words of Our Lord and the gracious promises He won through his suffering, death, and resurrection. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16) Take time for reading Scripture this week. Pray a prayer of thankfulness for Jesus. Make a point to connect with a fellow brother or sister (or aunt and uncle) in Christ. Refocusing our life, family, and community around the cross and the empty tomb provides all the remedies we need in our busy world: a patient Savior who waits with open arms to any and all who would call out onto Him in faith "in hope of eternal life, which God, who never lies, promised before the ages began." (Titus 1:2) Make time for Jesus, after all He made eternity available to you! May your family be blessed this Easter season!