April 2025
Sometimes one little word can make all the difference.
There’s a three-letter word in Mark’s Gospel which peppers the story of Jesus’ resurrection. The word is: “but.” (See Mark 16:1-8)
The women are frightened, but the angel messenger calms their fears. They have come to find the body of Jesus, but they hear instead the news that he is risen. They are awestruck, filled with terror and amazement, yet they are told, “But go, tell…”
Yes, one little word can change everything.
It seems that the story had come to an end. Jesus died a cruel death on the cross. It was finished. The women came to the tomb to do the last act of devotion – to anoint the lifeless body of Jesus for burial. They feel powerless, unable to stop death, unable to move the large stone entombing their Lord.
But…. (there it is again!) But the stone is rolled away. But Jesus is not there. But Christ is risen!
Pain and difficulties can weigh us down like a cold stone that cannot be moved. Death and sorrow can cover us as a shroud. Guilt and anxiety, fear of the future, or frustration over eth past can entomb us, with seemingly no light at the end of the tunnel.
But God pulls off the greatest reversal of all in the resurrection of Jesus. The last word spoken is not death, but life; not sorrow, but joy; not guilt, but forgiveness. God breaks down the locked doors of whatever that shuts us in, and God promises wonderful surprises through that one little word.
But there is something more.
This wonderful news is not just for us to keep for ourselves. The words that are spoken to us are “But go, tell….” Tell others the amazing news of the risen and living Jesus. Tell others that death is not the final word, but eternal life is available for all who believe. Tell others that God is not confined to a time and place, but Jesus goes before us and is with us wherever we find ourselves to be. No buts about it!
Blessed Holy Week to you and yours!
Pastor Paul
Immanuel’s Vision Statement
A vibrant and diverse community of faith where lives are changed;
Where people of all ages are invited and challenged
To become disciples of Jesus in their daily lives;
Where real people experience healing, help, hope and harmony
Please contact the church office if you, or someone you know from Immanuel, with their permission, is in the hospital. Due to confidentiality laws, the hospital does NOT contact the church (or pastor) when they are admitted, even if they designate a specific church/pastor on the intake form. At Immanuel, we hope and strive to provide timely and appropriate pastoral care to those who would desire and appreciate it. Too often, we are last to know about a member being (or having been) in the hospital. Thank you!