Blessed Easter

Yesterday was Easter and an eventful one at that. Dr Jerry preached near Hinche. He spoke about the historical evidence for the resurrection. The rest of the HAFF folks went to the Maranatha Baptist Church of Bohoc right down the street. We were disappointed to not sing any resurrection hymns and that the scripture and sermon were still focusing on the crucifixion. But throughout the service it was made clear that this was the day we commemorate the resurrection. And the sermon was excellent -- about Jesus' word from the cross "It is finished". He had accompplished the payment of our sin debt and nothing more is required for our salvation but His blood and sacrifice.

We all gathered in the afternoon for a potluck meal in the school gazebo. We had a wonderful meal. HAFF potlucks are legendary for great food that amazingly all fits together even though not specifically coordinated! We had a wonderful time of fellowship as well, talking about all kinds of things from the sermons of the morning to experiences of the military heros we know in our lives.

The evening was capped with a showing of The Passion of the Christ at the church. The church was packed full and people could be heard actually keening in suffering through the scenes of Jesus' mistreatment and crucifixion. Both at the beginning and the end, one of the deacons emphasized that this was what Christ had suffered unmerited for us. And that without that suffering and the following resurrection, we would not have eternal life open to us. It was an amazing evening that put many things into perspective for me and the others who saw the film. So much seems trivial in the face of that payment.

Tomorrow I have been asked to share in devotions at school. Pray that the risen Lord would use me as His vessel to present the message He wants the students to hear.

And may you see the world this week and this year in the light of Easter -- with Easter eyes!