today, people in Zimbabwe are just like us. preparing for the resurrection of our Lord and Savior. but for them, this Easter is also different. Many people are connecting Easter and the resurrection of Jesus with the coming chance for renewal in the country. A cleansing of their wounds and an opportunity to begin a new chapter in the country's history.
I am not and will not advocate for a direction for Zimbabwe, as we are a relief agency caring for orphans. But I will say that our friends in Zimbabwe are praying for change...healthy change.
Yesterday, I spoke with our friend Fibion. His congregation had an all-night prayer vigil that went through THursday night to Friday morning. They then had Good Friday service at 6pm local time. They were regathering for an all day Saturday prayer & worship service. They would then celebrate Easter together as a church.
While length doesn't equal quality, it does help indicate priority. As we rush around and go about our lives, I encourage us to take time to pray, worship, and thank God for sending His Son to die on the cross for our sins.... so that we could be redeemed, restored, and renewed in Christ.
There are a ton of things going on in my life right now. People that are close to me are dying, good friends are suffering from severe sickness that could take their lives, and these situations are not in Zimbabwe. They are here in the United States.
When I was lost in grieving yesterday morning, I called Zimbabwe to grieve with them about all I was reading in the papers regarding their suffering, elections, abuse, water issues, power cuts, etc. Ya know what?????? They rejoiced!
People continue to rejoice and remember that our God is a God of redemption.
This weekend, remember that our God is smiling and rejoicing that His son is about to rise from the dead and redeem the world. While we know He has done this already, we stop and reflect at this sacrifice. Remember to take time to thank God and worship Him.
Our friends in Zimbabwe are doing that and we have a lot to learn from them, as they teach us about God, Jesus, and love.
Best,
Ryan
Saturday, March 22, 2008
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1 comment:
Ryan, a great Easter message! I was able to be a part of a ZOE MINISTRY team thatspent two weeks doing medical care w orphans in Zim last year, we are planning to return in Nov. '08. Truly, Jesus is risen and we must rejoice in the midst of death and chaos, rejoice and keep on doing his work of ressurection. Check out www.zoeministry.org. God bless you and your ministry! Rev. Jerry Hill
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