At this very moment when I write, and at the very moment when you read these words, you and I are in the presence of the living Christ. To remember this truth is to be shaped constantly by the presence of God in Christ in our lives. We often forget this central truth of the Christian faith, and when we do, we are easily overcome by the troubles of the world.

For me, what I write will pass before the eyes of the One about whom I write. As I write, I hope that my ordinary life and ordinary capacity will be energized, directed, and used by the One who gives me life and has called me to ministry at Salem Church. If I allow myself to think that my ministry and this message are all up to me, I risk feelings ranging from despair to arrogance. However, if I remember that I am not alone, but I think, work, and live in the presence of the living Christ, I remain hopeful that even the most simple and ordinary task carried out in His presence and with the assistance of Jesus is sacred, meaningful, and useful.

The risen Christ is with us and therefore, we need not fear the events of this day or any day that lies in our future. We know that each day will be lived in companionship with the only One who is able to rescue, redeem, save, keep, and companion us through every experience of this life and the next.

This realization does not take away the pain or uncertainty that our future holds. But it does give us strength, wisdom, and guidance; and most of all, it gives us a Companion to travel through each of life’s experiences with us. Easter Sunday that we just celebrated together, and every Sunday really, are gentle yet dramatic reminders that we are not alone or on our own. As followers of Jesus, we walk with God in Christ, and that makes the journey rich in meaning, joy, and peace, no matter where it leads.

As we move through the next three months – the last three months that we will spend together – I will do all that I can through Christ, who strengthens me, to encourage you and bless you with my words and prayers in order to remind you that Jesus Christ is alive and with you now, tomorrow, and forever.

Breathe on Salem, Breath of God...fill us with life anew in this blessed Spring ahead!