Easter is one of the most important Sundays of the year for most Pastors and their churches.  I’ve heard it said that many anti-christians will actually pray against christians during this time.  I don’t know if that’s true or not.  I do know that our family has come under attack every Easter for the last few years.  But I have to say, it’s well worth it!

My life verse has always been Romans 5:3-5.  I didn’t choose it, but it is what it is.

Rejoice in your trials and tribulations for they bring about perseverance, and perseverance brings about character and character brings about hope.

Romans 5:3-5

God allows trials in our lives to teach us to trust Him.  If we know anything about the book of Job, we know that satan likes to go after those that are in pursuit of righteousness and the kingdom.  He asked God to sift Job!  And God allowed it.

Last year we set out to begin Sunday services at ConvergenceSD on Easter.  It was a very important day.  Leading up to it Staci had a terrible bout with the flu which lead to multiple stays in the hospital and ultimately the removal of her gallbladder!  As worry began to set in regarding how to balance care for my wife and launching our church, God taught me to trust in Him.  He encouraged me by saying “If you take care of your bride, I will will take care of mine (the church is referred to as the Bride of Christ multiple times in scripture / see Eph 5:22-33).  And He did!  Staci recovered well and we had a wonderful launch at ConvergenceSD.

This year, it’s Easter time again and we find ourselves under attack.  This weekend, my whole family got the flu.  That’s right, all six of us!  Fortunately, God spared me and I didn’t get it until the Monday after Palm Sunday.  And guess what, 2 people began a relationship with Jesus on Palm Sunday!!!  That’s totally worth it, and it’s not even Easter!

I’m found once again in the midst of a trial, which is why I’m writing this post from my bed while battling this crazy flu.  Because guess what… I’m encouraged!  I’m rejoicing in my trials and placing my hope in Jesus.  This trial shows me that God is on the move at ConvergenceSD.  If God drew 2 people into the kingdom on Palm Sunday, I can’t wait to see what He’s going to do on Easter!  So I’m choosing to rejoice in my trials and tribulations, trust in Jesus and get ready to witness the best Easter yet!

What about you?

Please pray for us and all of those working so hard at ConvergenceSD as we prepare for our Good Friday Service, Saturday Egg Hunt and Easter Sunday Services!