Hey Centennial,
Easter may be behind us, but the wonder of the resurrection doesn’t end there. Over the next six weeks, we’ll explore the profound implications of the empty tomb for our lives. One truth that Jesus’ followers have recognized throughout history stands out:
Because of the resurrection, we commit ourselves to prayer.
Jesus taught His disciples both to pray and how to pray. His brother James encouraged us to pray in both suffering and joy. Paul urged us to pray continually, in all circumstances. The Psalms—the longest book in the Bible—are filled with prayers.
The resurrection isn’t just a story; it’s a reality. And that reality reveals something powerful:
Prayer is powerful.
In Ephesians 1, we’re reminded that a life connected to God through prayer shares in the same power that raised Jesus from the dead. Let these incredible words inspire you:
“I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come.” Ephesians 1:18-21
If you were moved by God’s power during our Easter worship gathering (and LOTS of people shared with me that they were), then lean into that and commit to gathering for worship the next six weeks as we explore the power of a life of prayer.
If this sounds strange to you, Easter was not a time that you felt God move. Then commit to gathering with the Centennial Covenant community over the next six weeks so you can explore more deeply what it is like to live life with God daily, to see the world through Kingdom eyes, and to find the strength Jesus promises he has given us.
I am so excited to see what God does in the weeks (and months and years!) ahead in your life and in our shared life.
Grace and peace,
Karl
P.S. PRAYER AND VISION NIGHT, THIS SUNDAY, 5:30-7:00PM. Speaking of prayer, the Council of Elders begins their annual vision and planning season soon and they want your prayers to cover and guide their planning. If you call CCC your church home, please make it a priority to join us for this important night of prayer and vision for our future. Childcare is provided (including dinner for the kiddos), you can register for childcare here!
P.P.S I put together a sheet list of reasons to believe in the resurrection. It’s a quick bullet list and includes everything from the Easter sermon but goes deeper too, you can find it here.