He is Risen

"He is not hear; he has risen, just as he said." 

—Matthew 28:6

Have a blessed Easter,

Starr

Hallmark of Spring

North Carolina is adopting the look and fragrance of spring. I love the hope and new life this season ushers in after the long winter. The flowering dogwood tree is a hallmark of our state—its blossom, our state flower. 

It's doubtful the dogwood tree was used for the cross of Christ as suggested in the well-known legend of the dogwood, but this beautiful flowering tree blooms during the Easter season and its distinctive blossoms remind Christians of Christ's death and resurrection. 

The tree’s pink or white blossoms have two long and two short petals that form the shape of a cross. Each petal contains a red-stained indentation representative of the nail prints and the blood of Christ. The cluster of stamens in the center of the bloom symbolizes his crown of thorns.

As you breathe in the beauty and fragrance of the dogwoods this spring, know that the story of Christ's death and resurrection is far from legendary. From his suffering came forgiveness and new life for all who believe and receive him as  Lord and Savior.

"For Christ died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit” (1 Peter 3:18, NASB).

Now it's your turn: Share an early Easter memory or tradition.

I always welcome your comments.

Have a blessed Easter, 

Starr

Legend of the Dogwood Tree:  https://goo.gl/1vjH3t

He's Alive!

"He is not here; HE IS RISEN . . . just as He said!"

Matthew 28:6, NIV

HAPPY EASTER!

The late S.M. Lockridge once presented an incredible message, 
describing our God and who He is. Though God can't be described with 
just words, this is about as close as one can get.

It is Finished!

Jesus called out with a loud voice, 

"Father, into your hands I commit my spirit."

When he said this, he breathed his last.

―Luke 23:46, NIV

(The Accomplishment, an oil painting done by my father)
 

Christ came from The Father.

From His first breath to His last, He was committed to doing His Father's will.

As He finished the work He was given to do, He returned to His Father's care.
For us, He gave His all.

Commit your every breath into the hands of The Father.
Give Him your all and love Him to the end.
In the end, it's all that will matter.

Please share your thoughts in the comment section below.

 Video: Hallelujah
Please take the time to view Kelley Mooney's approved Easter adaptation
of Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah". Beautiful!

Christ Crucified

And Jesus said, 

“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” 

And they cast lots to divide his garments.
―Luke 23:34, ESV

Why take a chance on your destiny?

You have a choice.

Choose Christ!

Video: It's Friday, but Sunday's Comin'

by S. M. Lockridge



S. M. Lockridge (1913 – 2000), was the Pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, a prominent African-American congregation located in San Diego, California, from 1953 to 1993. He was known for his preaching across the United States and around the world.