April: A Word from the Pastor


Screen Shot 2015-04-29 at 11.37.51 AMEvery year Americans remember Easter.

For some it is a religious holiday of little significance. For Christians, it is a reminder of the historical nature of the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. The earthly ministry of Christ began with the miracle of the incarnation. It came to its glorious culmination with another miracle of God – the resurrection and glorification of Christ.

An angel met the mourners at the tomb where Jesus was buried with a startling announcement.

“Do not be amazed; you are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who has been crucified. He has risen; He is not here; behold, here is the place where they laid Him” (Mark 16:6).

This announcement of resurrection signaled the triumph of the finished work of Christ on the cross. Jesus Christ satisfied the just requirements of God for the salvation of all for whom He died – and He arose victorious over sin and death. The victory was won – accompanied with a promise to secure that victory for all in Christ.

The resurrection is the sign and seal of the atoning work of Christ.

He is risen! The work of salvation is complete! We should always remember the resurrection of Jesus Christ and what it means for all eternity for true believers. It is noteworthy, however, that Scripture puts the focus on Christ Himself. The Apostle Paul wrote,

“Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, descendant of David, according to my gospel, for which I suffer hardship even to imprisonment as a criminal; but the word of God is not imprisoned” (2 Timothy 2:8-9).

Yes, remember the resurrection.

Yes, stand for the gospel of Christ. But, always remember Jesus Christ. He is the risen Savior. He ascended to glory and is seated at the right hand of God. He is bringing us to glory. The victory has been won. We may encounter trials and tribulations if life, we may face afflictions and persecutions, but the pathway of resurrection and eternallifehasbeensecuredbyJesusChrist. Hedied on the cross; He was raised from the dead; and He now continues to be the Good Shepherd who leads His sheep to glory. Remember Jesus Christ.

The world may not grasp the full significance of Christ, but we do!

We know He was raised in triumph for us. We know our salvation – past, present and future – was secured by Christ. Always remember Him!

– Gary W. Custis