Happy Monday, March 30, 2020 church!

Sisters and brothers,

Happy Monday to all!

I hope the link to the online sermon worked for you. I hope I learned from this first video how to better do future videos. The message continued our journey through Matthew. Also, I wanted it to point our attention to the events of Easter-the trial, crucifixion, burial, resurrection and ascension of our Lord Jesus. Yes, the events of that first Easter were real and historical, and we need to remember this, especially in difficult days like we are now experiencing. We can remember the great acts of our God to provide forgiveness, salvation, peace and life to us. Yesterday we thought about something familiar but essential: Jesus willingly went to the cross to receive the punishment that all sinners deserved. The innocent One died in the place of guilty sinners-you and me. Because Jesus took our sin, His righteousness is counted to us whenever we turn from ourselves and our sin and receive and believe. The Jewish leaders did not force Jesus to the cross. Pilate did not force Jesus to the cross. The mob calling for Jesus’ crucifixion did not force Jesus to the cross. Jesus willingly went to cross to do for us what we could not do for ourselves: provide a truly just way for our sins to be forgiven. Love for His Father and love for people sent Jesus to the cross.

Yesterday’s car caravan to encourage Donald and Deanna and their family was great! Even in this time of social distancing, we found a way to express the love of Christ. I want to thank Lois for this wonderful suggestion and all of you who participated. There were thirteen cars in our caravan. We drove by their house, honked, waved, and shouted out to them from our car windows words assuring them of the love and prayers of their brothers and sisters in Christ. We had fun, and it was a blessing to all who participated.

Remember to keep praying continually for each other.

Love being your pastor!

Bob Ray, Pastor, East Madison Baptist Church