2025 Eastertide Series

Witnesses of the Resurrection

Peter has been arrested for proclaiming the good news of Jesus’ death and resurrection. His response to the charges of the high priest summarizes the early church’s proclamation of forgiveness of sin through repentance. Even when threatened, the disciples could not help but witness that Jesus is raised from death. 

A Change in Plans  

Each of us has a story of meeting God’s grace. Saul of Tarsus (later called Paul) was an ardent persecutor of all who followed the Way of Christ. This reading recounts the story of his transformation, beginning with an encounter with Jesus Christ on the Damascus Road.

Outbreak?

Dorcas was a faithful and devoted woman of charity in the community of Joppa. Her kindness and her work with clothing was well-known, especially to the widows in town. When she fell ill and died, Peter raised her back to life through the power of prayer. There was Jairus's daughter, then the widow of Nain, Lazarus, Jesus, and now Tabitha — how many more will be raised from death?

Coloring Outside the Lines  

In defense of his earlier baptism of pagan believers, Peter demonstrated to the members of the Jerusalem church that God’s intention to love Gentiles as well as Jews is revealed in Jesus’ own testimony. In this way, the mission to the Gentiles is officially authorized. Imagine Peter's surprise when he learned that the good news was not just for a select group of people.

Divine Summons

A vision compels Paul to move his ministry into Greece. There, he meets Lydia, an important person in the business community whose heart has been opened by God to receive the gospel. Her conversion and baptism provide the impetus for the founding of the church of Philippi. How long would it have been before the people of Macedonia heard the good news if Paul had not answered this divine summons?

Not Without Controversy  

The owners of a slave-girl who used her powers to tell fortunes threw Paul and Silas into jail for “healing” her and, consequently, ruining their business. In prison, Paul and Silas bring the good news of the gospel to the jailer and his family. Make no mistake, not everyone will be delighted to hear the good news.

On Fire!

Before Jesus ascended into heaven, he told his disciples they would be filled with the Holy Spirit. Now surrounded by signs of fire, wind, and a variety of languages in their midst, the people were amazed and astonished at Jesus’ promise coming true. Be “On Fire” and experience the presence of the Holy Spirit in our midst.