Once again, we have been reminded of the wonderful Easter message, Jesus died and rose three days later so that we may have eternal life.
As I sat celebrating this wonderful message on Easter Sunday, I was taken down another path during the message. Yes, I believe that Jesus died and rose; yes, I believe Jesus won victory over death and the devil; yes, I believe my sins are forgiven; yes, I believe I now have the gift of eternal life. But it was what else that was said that made me pause.
In ‘good’ Lutheran language we often describe ourselves as ‘poor helpless sinners’. Sure, we know that our sins are forgiven but that is the image that is often brought to the fore. Pastor Fin in his Easter message spoke about how God doesn’t see the sin in us and because of Christ’s sacrifice now sees Jesus in us. He looks past the sin and imperfection and sees us as his children, clean and free from sin. What a comforting image.
This reminded me of words which I heard several years ago from Bill Hybels, former pastor of Willow Creek church in Chicago. Pastor Hybel said, “You have never looked in the eyes of someone who does not matter to God”. Jesus has died for all and we all now have the gift of eternal life. Yes, we need to acknowledge our sin and ask for forgiveness, but we know this has been given; God sees us all equally – as his forgiven children.
May you, with the help of the Holy Spirit, share this message with all those in your community. It is one of the reasons our schools and ECSs exist – to share the Gospel message. And what a wonderful message it is!
Blessings
Shane Paterson
Director: Leadership & School Improvement
shane.paterson@levnt.edu.au
