This morning started off in a way unlike any other Resurrection Sunday I've ever celebrated. Denise and I set our alarm clocks for 4:15 so we could get ready to attend a sunrise service by Praise Christian Fellowship at the Hogback (or Goodwin) Dam in Riverton, CT. Doug Konitski led worship and Pastor Ryan Nilsen delivered a concise yet poignant message focusing on the miracle of the resurrection of Jesus and the hope, joy and peace it ought to represent to us as His followers. He stressed the desire that each person present this morning would come away with a stronger sense of the reality of this amazing event which echoes through the ages unlike any other.
1In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre.
2And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it.
3His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow:
4And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men.
5And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.
6He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.
7And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you.
8And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word.
9And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him.
10Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me.
(Matthew 28:1-10)
Our small group helped by setting things up, handing out programs and serving hot chocolate- plus Pastor Ryan and Doug are in the group also and they did lots of stuff, including putting up signs in the predawn darkness. Following, we enjoyed a joyful time of breakfast and fellowship at PCF. (Others from our small group served there!) Let me just say, not to take anything away from our home church, but we are so grateful for PCF, the growing relationships we've formed with the people there and how they've touched our lives.
Later, at our church, First Connecticut Open Bible Standard Church in Torrington, CT, we enjoyed an equally meaningful time of praise and worship, a message from our Pastor H. Barry Steed and participation from several in the congregation through song and scripture readings. After that, my mother-in-law invited us to come for a terrific dinner that she and my sister-in-law lovingly prepared. It was a great day. I hope yours was too!
