Philip’s Focus

Three Words that Shaped the World... “HE IS RISEN!”

This Sunday is Easter! We will proclaim the most impactful words in history… “HE IS RISEN!” These words not only changed history but more importantly, hearts. All hearts can be changed our hearts, the hearts of the world, and the words bring the prospect of changing even cold and unchanged hearts.

We will proclaim the good news “HE IS RISEN” and conclude the I AM series. We will have the privilege of hearing the teaching of one more I AM saying… “I AM the resurrection and the life.” This saying comes from John 11:26. The Resurrection, of course, is our main theme on Sunday!

In my forty-seven years of ministry, I have proclaimed around forty different Easter messages. Yet, all have proclaimed the same truth… “HE IS RISEN!” The message never gets old. Each year for varied reasons we need to hear this message again! This year as much as ever.

In fact, as we move toward Easter Sunday, I find myself excited like a child in a candy store. The Holy Spirit has already been at work for weeks preparing me for the upcoming Easter message. This excitement will continue to build, as we journey through the emotions of Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday!

Also, I envision the Shalimar United Methodist Church being as a lighthouse for a dark world with the good news of Jesus’ resurrection! The world needs good news. We need good news. Even the church needs a full dose of good news.

I hope you will plan to be in worship at one of our four Easter Worship Services at 8:00, 9:30, 11:00 or 11:07. Also, plan to be here the following Sunday for the Unforgettable Sermon. The excitement is building as we prepare for the three words that shaped the world…HE IS RISEN!

Lead Pastor

Dr. Philip McVay

philip@shalimar-umc.org

Week of April 9, 2023