Easter at Istrouma; Week 3, April 28, 2019

In 2018 the average American spent $150 on Easter gifts. That adds up to a national total of $18.2 billion spent! Somewhere along the way the practice of giving gifts at Easter has grown.

I don’t remember getting gifts at Easter beyond the boiled eggs that we colored and hid. But I’m not bitter, really;-). Just because my generation didn’t get gifts, doesn't mean that kids today shouldn’t get them. I've resolved not to be a scrooge.

In fact, you might be surprised to learn that the Bible relates gifts to Easter and its effect! An excerpt of Ephesians 4:8 says, “When he ascended on high he . . . gave gifts to men.”

Now to be sure, these gifts are not chocolate and stuffed bunnies. They are gifts of infinitely greater worth offered by the One of infinite worth.

This Sunday at Istrouma we're going to answer the question, "What gifts are in the Easter 'basket?'"

Spoiler alert: they don't melt and they are yours for the receiving!

 

 

Easter at Istrouma

“The Mission of Jesus”

Luke 24:36-53

 

1. The gift of peace

As they were talking about these things, Jesus himself stood among them, and said to them, “Peace to you!” (24:36).

 

1. Replaces our fears
2. Reinforces our faith

2. The gift of pardon

And that repentance for the forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem (24:47).

 

1. Has a requirement
2. Has a reach

3. The gift of power

And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high(24:49).

 

1. Empowers us to witness
2. Empowers us to worship