Easter Challenge // M-Note 4.5.25

Last week, a guy in our church told me that he can’t wait for Easter. He said that it was two years ago on Easter Sunday that their family was invited and decided to give church a try. Since that time, their family has been through turmoil, seasons of celebration, and a lot of transition. But, the church has made a life-changing difference in their ability to weather it all and stay hopeful. It was a very simple reminder of the power of Easter.
 
Some of us grew up in church all of our lives. While I am grateful that I did, growing up in church can also cause you to take for granted the difference a word of hope or a message of resurrection can mean to someone who is new. We take for granted the power of having a community that you know, and that knows you. We neglect to see that there are people looking for some good news and aren’t sure where to find it. We forget just how meaningful it can be when someone thinks of us and invites us.
 
Easter is not only a season of resurrection, hope, second chances and new starts – it is also a season of invitation. There is nothing like Easter worship at The Gathering and this year we will once again be celebrating together at The Factory in Chesterfield at 9:00 and 10:45am. We have plenty of seats and that is on purpose. Because there are a lot of people around you who might be looking for something new, and we want to have a seat for them at The Gathering.
 
That is where you come in. Between now and April 20, I want to challenge each of you to invite someone around you to join you for Easter service. It can be as easy as texting someone, mentioning it to a coworker, telling a neighbor, posting it on socials, or grabbing a postcard to share with a friend. You never know where that invitation will lead and who might reflect back in two years on what a difference it made to them.
 
So take up the challenge AND let me know when you do it. I want to celebrate all those invitations with you. You can let me know on Facebook, Instagram, or just drop me an email. I can’t wait to see you, and your friends, this Easter.
 
Peace,
Matt
 
P.S. Easter is also a really fun time to serve, and we still have room for more people to do so. You get a good parking spot, a cool t-shirt, and the joy that comes from creating a space for others. Plus, it is memorable and meaningful. If you are willing to serve, thank you! You can sign up right here.