Living in the HOPE of Jesus' Easter Victory

Dear Fellow Children of God,

In the last week two events reminded us we live in a world ravaged by sin.  First, a large series of deadly storms tore through the southeast region of our country, tragically leaving 337 people dead.  Then less than a week later the world’s most wanted terrorist was brought to justice, reawakening memories of the thousands of people he had killed and of the millions more who were affected by his violence.

Yet, it is May in Alaska.  The snow has left the floor of our valley.  Tulips are poking through the cold soil, braving the still frosty nights and bringing a promise of summer.  Buds are popping on the trees.  Lakes are no longer safe for ice fishing as the ice slowly melts.  Spring has arrived and summer approaches.  In spite of the real tragedy and sorrow of our world, the new life of spring gives hope.

This hope is not a mirage, but reflects the greater hope and joy that breaks into the midst of life’s real pain and struggle.  Easter Day has passed, but the victory of Easter continues.  Jesus has risen!  Jesus took the full penalty of our sin in His death on the cross, but He was stronger.  Jesus has risen!  While we continue to struggle with our sin and the pain in the world around us, Jesus has defeated our enemy and calls us to His victory.  So, we have real hope.

Paul tells us triumphantly, 55 "Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?"  56 The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. 57 But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

The storms of life are real.  But we can face life’s storms in sure hope.  Jesus is risen! 

A Child of God, living in the hope of Jesus’ Easter victory,

Pastor Jonathan

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ABOUT ‘THOUGHTS FROM THE PASTOR’ -   I am sending these e-mail messages, hopefully weekly, to all St. John members and friends whose e-mails I have.  (I am always adding new names of friends and members – in case you are just receiving this e-mail for the first time.)  However, if you don’t want to receive this e-mail, please let me know, and I’ll gladly leave your name off my list for this message. . . Or, if you know someone who would like to receive one of these e-mails, please send me their e-mail address.

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