April/May Newsletter

From Pastor Amy’s Desk

Greetings in the name of our risen Savior, Jesus Christ!

Looking out my office window as I write this letter, I see beautiful pink Azalea bushes in full bloom, and the flowers planted around the church are standing tall after their fresh drink of water from the recent rain. It seems as if the world around us awakens to the beauty of spring. I am reminded of the power of new life. The cold and barrenness of winter is fading away, making room for fresh beginnings, vibrant colors, allergy medicine, and the warmth of the sun! In much the same way, Easter is a celebration of the greatest new beginning—the resurrection of Jesus Christ!

As we approach this glorious Easter season, my heart is filled with gratitude and hope. The resurrection of Jesus is the cornerstone of our faith—a declaration that light triumphs over darkness, life over death, and hope over despair. In a world that often feels uncertain and weary, Easter reminds us that hope is not just a feeling, but a living reality found in Christ.

The apostle Peter wrote, “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead” (1 Peter 1:3). This “living hope” is not wishful thinking; it is the assurance that our God is alive and at work in our lives, redeeming, restoring, and renewing all things.

Through Jesus’ death and resurrection, Jesus conquered the grave and opened the door to new life for all who believe in Him. As Paul writes in Romans 6:4, “Just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.” This is the promise of Easter: that no matter where we have been or what we have faced, God’s grace is always at work, bringing renewal, hope, and transformation.

Perhaps you have walked through a difficult season. Maybe doubts, grief, or struggles have weighed you down. Let me encourage you: Easter is for you. The empty tomb is God’s declaration that nothing—no hardship, no sin, no sorrow—is beyond God’s power to transform. Because Christ lives, we can face tomorrow with confidence, knowing that His love never fails, and His promises are true. 

Easter calls us to step into the fullness of life God has for us. It is a season to let go of the past, to embrace the joy of salvation, and to walk forward in faith, knowing that Christ’s victory is our victory.

Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 5:17, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” What a powerful truth! The resurrection of Jesus is not just an event to remember; it is an invitation to step into the new life He offers.

No matter what season you’ve been walking through—whether a time of joy or challenge—Easter is God’s promise that God is making all things new. In God, brokenness is restored, sorrow is turned to joy, and what once seemed lifeless is filled with purpose and hope.

As we gather to celebrate this Easter, let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith. Let us rejoice in the victory of the cross and the hope of the resurrection. May our hearts be renewed, our burdens lifted, and our faith strengthened. May we see God’s hand at work in our lives and in our church, bringing forth new life in unexpected and beautiful ways.

I can’t wait to celebrate with you this Easter! Christ is risen! He is risen indeed!

With much love and many blessings,

Pastor Amy 

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