The Messenger - April 7, 2011 - Nine Hours -- and Counting
"Nine Hours--and Counting"
Last month, I began a series of sermons based upon the last 24 hours of Jesus' life, describing 2-3 hours of Christ's last day in a 20 minute sermon each week. This Sunday, we are down to 9 hours, and the clock is ticking fast! Soon, Christ will be condemned on our behalf and hanging on a cross.
On the one hand, this study of Christ's last mortal day can be macarbre--especially if you focus on the beatings, blood, and gore. On the other hand, this study of Christ's last hours can be tremendously inspiring when we think about the choices Jesus made on our behalf. This Sunday, I'll talk about Christ's trial before Ponctius Pilate, who clearly wanted to let him "off." Next Sunday, we'll focus on the proceeds of Christ's betrayal and the odd way that those funds were used for us. Then, at 7 p.m. on Maundy Thursday (April 21), we'll focus upon the voices of those who led Christ to the cross or saw him hanging there
Each of these scenes is compelling, and each has much to show us about the odd contradictions of human nature: courage and cowardice, acceptance and rejection, sensitivity and scorn. They also have much to show us about God's mercy and God's grace. Thus, I hope you'll join us for each step on the countdown to calvary. I also hope you'll make a special effort to attend some lovely music programs that we will offer in the next 3 weeks.
On this Sunday, June 10, several of our children's choirs will present "American Ideal," a take-off on "American Idol" the emphasizes the great benefits of humilty. This charming program will begin at 5 p.m., but you may want to come a bit early to get a seat. We expect a good crowd this day, and we cannot "save" seats. We appreciate your understanding, and we will be happy to seat you promptly at 4:40 p.m.
On Sunday, April 17, the Chancel Choir will present an "American Mass," by Ron Kean. This thoughtful and lovely work blends classic latin texts with beautiful English lyrics from classic old spiritual songs and hymns. This program will take place during morning worship at 9:30 a.m., but you may want to come a bit early on that day, too.
Finally, don't forget that we will offer two triumphant services on Easter Sunday. The Children's choirs will inspire us at 11 a.m., while the teen and adult choirs will move us to worship at 9 a.m. Splitting forces in this way should leave plenty of room for you to bring extended family and friends to church, so I hope you will extend some invitations soon. After all, Easter is always more fun when shared with dear folks that we enjoy.
I'll see you in church!
Neal
Fri, Apr 8
8:00 pm - Ice Skating Night
Sat, Apr 9
9:00 am - Final Rehearsal for Musical
Sun, Apr 10
8:30 am - Adult Sunday School
9:30 am - Worship
5:00 pm - King's Chorus and Gospel Gang Musical
Mon, Apr 11
7:00 pm - Women's Bible Study
7:00 pm - Stewardship meeting
Tue, Apr 12
7:30 pm - Student Ministries Meeting
Wed, Apr 13
7:00 am - Bible Study at Carrow's
4:00 pm - Parent Hangout
4:00 pm - Angel Choir
4:00 pm - Angel and Cherubs Storytime
4:00 pm - GG Devotional/Homework Hangout
4:30 pm - Cherub Choir
5:00 pm - Gospel Gang Choir
5:45 pm - Dinner for King's Chorus and SonLight
Singers
6:15 pm - King's Chorus Choir
6:15 pm - High School Fellowship
6:45 pm - Co-Op Meeting in CE #1
7:00 pm - AHEPA
7:00 pm - Bell Choir Rehearsal
7:00 pm - Prayer Group
7:15 pm - Junior High Fellowship
7:15 pm - SonLight Singers Choir
Thu, Apr 14
7:30 pm - Chancel Choir Rehearsal
Fri, Apr 15
7:00 pm - Youth Hangout
9:00 am - Choir Dress Rehearsal
Erik Larson is the interim editor of
the Messenger.
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