Easter Gratitude
I am giving thanks to the Lord for all the evidence of his favor on our celebration of the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ – and I hope you will join me!
The season began on Wednesday evening, March 13, with the kickoff event for our Hymns and Hallelujahs art exhibit on the mezzanine in the Gathering Area (check out the photos here).
The celebration continued on Palm Sunday – with more than 2,300 in morning worship (which included the Lord’s Supper) and 480 in our evening Chapel Choir concert, The Wondrous Cross (photos are here).
Then, on Easter Saturday, more than 1,200 boys and girls and their families participated in a joy-filled, sun-drenched Easter Family Fun Day on our campus (photos are here).
Finally, on Easter weekend, more than 4,200 worshipers (3,866 on campus and 388 on the livestream) gathered to give praise to the Lord in five services filled with joy and gladness and to enjoy great food and fellowship in the Gathering Area (watch the blended service here).
In each of our Easter worship services, the gospel was proclaimed, and many responded. The response cards indicate that while the overwhelming majority of worshipers were already Christ-followers, 42 people repented and believed, 23 said they are considering what it means to follow Christ, 59 are interested in baptism, 91 are interested in membership, and 121 renewed their commitment to Christ. Our team will begin to have follow-up conversations soon.
Of course, we give all glory to God for all the blessings he has poured out on us. We acknowledge gladly that without him, we can do nothing (cf. John 15:5) and that every good gift comes from his hand (James 1:17). It’s all by his grace and for his glory (cf. Ephesians 1:3-14)!
It’s also appropriate to say thanks to everyone who served, everyone who prayed, everyone who invited, and everyone who participated. I am deeply grateful for each of you and for your partnership in the gospel (cf. Philippians 1:3-5).
“Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen” (Ephesians 3:20-21, ESV).
Your Pastor and Friend,
