Hiding between Mother’s Day and Pentecost
One of the most important jobs of Christian leaders is to remind us of what is important. So I was more than a little disappointed when The Banner ran with Earth Day rather than Easter on the April cover. Nothing against being a good steward of God’s gifts, but Easter rules. Bearing witness to the resurrection is at the center of what it means to be a Christian – it needs to be on the cover.
Now I’m thinking about what might be on the May cover, and May is a full month of possible covers. Memorial Day is important, and to miss Mother’s Day would be unforgivable. Pentecost is would be the “safe” choice. But I’d put Ascension Day on the cover.
Our church order calls for us to celebrate Jesus’ ascension. It is when Jesus took his place at the Father’s right hand to intercede for us. It is at the ascension that we learn just how Jesus will return in when he comes in glory And Ascension Day is a celebration of God’s timing:
He said to them, “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight. (Acts 1:8-9)
Most importantly, it is on Ascension Day that the church gets its clearest marching orders from her now ascendant and ruling King. We are empowered to take the Jesus message to our Jerusalem, to our Samaria and to the ends of the earth. Ascension Day is the celebration of churches on a mission.
So, this May let’s honor those who’ve made the ultimate sacrifice for us on Memorial Day and remember Mother’s Day (and those in our ACRC family who have lost their moms). Yes, we’ll celebrate the birthday of the church on Pentecost – watch for a special missions offering and Communion service this month. But I’m most looking forward to Ascension Day this month, to being reminded of the mission and the power.
With you in on the mission, Pastor Doug Fakkema, Anacortes CRC