The Applause: A Holy Week Observance

This Sunday will begin what many refer to as “Holy Week”. It begins with Palm Sunday remembering Jesus welcome into Jerusalem for the last time. He is greeted with Palm branches as the crowds applaud and shout “Hosanna”. Why the “applause”? Did they get it right or did they so misunderstand? Then we have our annual Good Friday service. This contemplative service remembers the great price paid for our salvation. The enemies of the Cross and the Gospel would look upon the death of Christ and applaud. Shouts would ring out that Jesus was dead and soon to be buried and forgotten. Not so fast. Remember the words of Joseph in Genesis 50:20 “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives”. It is not over until God says it is over…it is Good Friday. Then Easter morning, we celebrate at 8:30 and 11:00 the Resurrection. “He is risen! He is risen indeed!”. We will have two worship services this Easter Sunday. I look forward to them both. Listen for the applause…let your heart join in the celebration of what God is doing for us through His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. Hallelujah.

The North American Missions - Annie Armstrong Easter Offering

This year we are blessed with the opportunity to give to help start new churches in some of the most difficult areas of North America. Inner city Baltimore is one of the “Send” cities that Southern Baptists have chosen. Our former staff member, Brent Gordon, and his family and a team from JIBC are a part of that effort. This year’s offering will be divided between the North American Mission Board and the new church plant Brent is leading. You can find out about Brent’s sponsoring church by visiting www.gallerychurchbaltimore.com. Brent will need to be raising support for the new work. This is one way we can all participate. We actually have a team of ladies going to visit Brent in June. Pray for Linda Iler, Alice Hilyer and Connie Walpole as they go to prayer walk and serve.

By the way, my thanks to Susan Warren for writing articles over the last few weeks. It is a wonderful way for her to share what she sees our Lord doing and a nice way for you to get to know her heart. Pastor Sean will be doing the same in weeks to come. It gives you a break from me and introduces you to your staff. I am grateful to serve with our team.

See you Sunday, good Lord willing,

Pastor Tom