In celebration of Easter, the kids and I are going to tell part of The Story with scripture and music tonight at worship. It is such an amazing story to be part of. As I read the following scripture from Isaiah chapter 9 (msg), I couldn’t help but become incredibly grateful and excited to celebrate Him tonight. 

The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light. For those who lived in a land of deep shadows— light! sunbursts of light! For a child has been born—for us! the gift of a son—for us! He’ll take over the running of the world. His names will be: Amazing Counselor, Strong God, Eternal Father, Prince of Wholeness. His ruling authority will grow, and there’ll be no limits to the wholeness he brings.

There will be no limits to the wholeness he brings! He Lives. Jesus Lives. Death has been defeated. I am reminded once again of this story in Luke: The seventy came back triumphant. “Master, even the demons danced to your tune!” Jesus said, “I know. I saw Satan fall, a bolt of lightning out of the sky. See what I’ve given you? Safe passage as you walk on snakes and scorpions, and protection from every assault of the Enemy. No one can put a hand on you. All the same, the great triumph is not in your authority over evil, but in God’s authority over you and presence with you. Not what you do for God but what God does for you—that’s the agenda for rejoicing.” -Luke‬ ‭10:17-20‬ (msg)

God has indeed done something great for us, and we have every reason to rejoice! 

I pray to the God of glory––to make you intelligent and discerning in knowing him personally, your eyes focused and clear, so that you can see exactly what it is he is calling you to do, grasp the immensity of this glorious way of life he has for his followers, oh, the utter extravagance of his work in us who trust him –– endless energy, boundless strength! -Ephesians 1:17-19 (msg) For His Glory! Amen.

Pic: Basking in a little sunshine and watching clouds. Sweet sunshine!