Easter is Coming (Virtually)

In just six days Easter 2020 (for the west) will be observed in an unprecedented fashion. The entire week's rhythm for pastors, churches and the observant Christian has been radically disrupted. Long anticipated family gatherings and traditions have been cancelled or delayed indefinitely. Restaurant brunches have been cancelled, one of the more significant and profitable days of the year for many venues. It's all very sad.

But interestingly enough, this Easter may come the closest to being like the first one in our experience. All of our celebrations and all of the festivities we had planned now have a somber glow cast over them. Gathering online feels different than gathering onsite. Huddling in upper rooms, basements and dens around screens is different than gathering in large sanctuaries, convention centers or outdoor arenas. We're not sure what the day holds when it comes, and even less sure about the days ahead. 

I'm preparing a message of encouragement and conviction. I'm confident in Christ's ability to lead us triumphantly into a new era of gathering and of spiritual growth. If Easter teaches us anything, it's that death doesn't have the final word, and that no matter how dark the days, light is coming, hope is out there, life and God's love wins! 

I hope you'll follow us @hucrestcog on Facebook and stay informed about creative ways we're connecting and offering encouragement to one another. And, I hope you'll join us for our virtual Holy Week gatherings, including Easter Sunday, April 12 at 10:30 AM.

Peace

Jon