Greetings Friends!
So, a question for you...has your week been different from the last 52+ weeks, having just celebrated Easter? My guess is that your answer is “well...not really.” That is understandable. I ran into one of our Union Church Family members at Heinz Field this morning as we were both receiving our second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. It was great to catch up with him and hear about his family. This past Sunday of resurrection celebration didn’t change the daily challenges for his young family, his work, etc. Nonetheless, we may still affirm with confidence that Jesus’ resurrection changes everything. Whether it is the renewed hope of a new creation, or the simple reminder that God’s love, power and grace is stronger than all the challenges we face in this life, Jesus’ resurrection makes all the difference!
It is worth being reminded that the resurrection changes everything for the collective identity of the Lord’s people as well. Who we are as the church of Jesus Christ, and what we are about - the reason for the church’s existence is absolutely determined by Jesus’ resurrection. In fact, Jesus, in his post-resurrection appearances provides clear instruction for his disciples. He gives his disciples, and all generations to follow (the church, the body of Christ), marching orders for our share in the Mission of God.
Join us this Sunday in worship, as we take a close look at the continuation of Luke’s story of the resurrection of Jesus (Luke 24:36-49). We’ll dive into this passage with the question, “Why the Church?” in mind. I’ll share this much of my message now: the truth of the resurrection, which lays at the heart of who we are as the church, carries the everyday significance that makes a difference for you and me, no matter our circumstances. It is the event that changes everything, even when appearances suggest otherwise. That is our message of encouragement to each other, and the good news that we proclaim to the world. See you Sunday at 11 a.m. in person or via Live Stream.
Peace,Tom
Thomas B. Ribar Pastor, Mt. Pisgah Church
Associate Pastor for Families and Youth, Union Church of Robinson
412.977.9454 (m)