Hi Friends,
This morning I read the utterly amazing account of the stoning of Stephen in Acts 7:59-60. His courage and forgiveness in the face of such unfair cruelty is a lesson in itself. But I was struck by his two prayers, which he prayed while they were stoning him. As tomorrow is “Good Friday”, I couldn’t help but relate Stephen’s prayers to those of our Lord at the time of His crucifixion.
And as they were stoning Stephen, he called out, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” (Acts 7:59 ESV)
Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!” And having said this he breathed his last. (Luke 23:46 ESV)
And falling to his knees he cried out with a loud voice, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” And when he had said this, he fell asleep. (Acts 7:60 ESV)
And Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” And they cast lots to divide his garments. (Luke 23:34 ESV)
Let us reflect in these next few days on the incredible sacrifice our Lord made on our behalf (and in our place). Consider the forgiveness He offered even as He endured undeserved hatred and brutality. And, like Stephen, let us think about how we may follow His example in laying down our lives and offering forgiveness even to people who don’t deserve it!
Don’t forget the unique opportunity for worship and reflection on Resurrection Morning up on Buttercup Hill at 6:30am Sunday! It’s a tremendous blessing for the whole family. Our kids have thoroughly enjoyed the experience the last two years, and have been talking about climbing the hill almost all this year! (We’re even anticipating good weather this time!)
Also remember that we will not have Sunday School at FBC this week. But you may want to arrive for the 10:30am worship service a little early – parking may be a little tricky, as well as seating. Speaking of seating, for our regulars – I want to encourage you to be especially aware of our guests this Sunday. If you could sit towards the front and scoot to the middle of the rows, our ushers would appreciate it! If we could have little ones sit on laps instead of using their own seat, that would help too. Let’s be gracious hosts to any newcomers, and display the love and kindness of our Savior. If you need to give up your seat for one Sunday, that’s not too much of a sacrifice, especially in light of His ultimate sacrifice for us!
Please be in prayer that this will be a powerful Resurrection Sunday for all who come to FBC. I trust you are praying for your OIKOS, and making efforts to invite them.
I will be preaching on Galatians 1:1-5. It is easy to “gloss over” the salutation sections at the beginning of the New Testament letters. But those opening lines are just as important to our understanding as the rest of the letters! And Galatians 1:1-5 is packed with some wonderful truths for us to consider as we worship our Risen Savior this Sunday!
He is Risen! (He is Risen Indeed!)
Love From Your Pastor,
Michael