The resurrection channels our aspirations not to build heaven on earth through our efforts, but to participate in God’s redemptive work begun in Christ.
An Easter breakfast or brunch is a sign of the in-breaking kingdom, a chance to delight in the resurrection, and an opportunity to lavish honor on one another.
The Christian hope is resurrection, a hope that should shape our mission and witness. Do our funerals, though, convey this pastorally-rich and biblically-grounded hope?
Many parishes will have baptisms this Sunday, the feast of the Baptism of the Lord. In Baptism, water is poured. The new Christian dies and rises with Christ. Grace happens. What, though, is the role of the Covenant added to many Baptismal rites, for example in TEC and the Anglican Church of Canada?