St. Paul Lutheran Church in East Lansing, Michigan. Member congregation of the ELCA - Evangelical Lutheran Church of America.

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April 2007

We will gather to celebrate the Resurrection of our Lord at 8:30am & 11am on Sunday the 8th of April. We hope you are able to be with us that morning at worship and the Easter Breakfast between services at 9:45. We will also have the Easter Egg Hunt for the children at 9:45.

This is the time of year when we remember that God our Creator brings life out of death just as spring follows winter. Jesus of Nazareth who was crucified by the Roman government was raised to life as the Messiah and King. Messiah being the Anointed One given all authority and power by God. His triumph over "sin, death, and the power of the devil" forever changes our relationship to God and each other.

Whether we look at the resurrection in a literal or metaphorical manner, Jesus life, death, and resurrection gives us the power to defeat those forces that otherwise would destroy us. Jesus resurrection lets us know that the power of sin and evil are destroyed by his teaching and action of love. Lately I've seen the little bumper sticker that says simply, "Love wins." In this world where so often it seems that hate, greed, and violence are in control, we can know that through the power of the empty tomb, this is God's truth, "Love wins." As we remember Jesus' resurrection we also are reminded that if we place our trust in him in all matters we too will be raised like him.

Our lives are in God's care and keeping no matter what happens to us. Often Easter's true message is lost under a flurry of Easter Eggs, jelly beans, and chocolate bunnies. These are enjoyable but they are not a reminder of the things that will endure. Even the transitory nature of fashion and spring colors will too pass away. But knowing God's love in Jesus Christ can give us strength in good times and bad. It can empower us in ways that we can't now even imagine.

Knowing that we soon face a decision at the Special Congregational Meeting on the building on the 15th at 1pm, pray that we make the God pleasing decision on this matter. If we go ahead it will be a big commitment that will make a difference for years to come. May the Joy of Easter be yours in this time of renewal and growth.

Just a reminder that on Wednesday, April 18, we will have 14 members of the Spring Arbor University Theater Department here to present "Meeting in Munich." It is a powerful play which confronts the challenge faced when following God is contrasted with following the nation. Set in Nazi Germany it makes you a part of the congregation which is faced with a serious question of their faith. There will be a free will offering. If you wish to join the cast for soup and bread at 6pm there is a sign-up sheet in the narthex. The play will be at 7:30pm. Others I know who have seen it say it is a most powerful presentation.

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