Early in the morning, in a garden set aside as a place of mourning and remembrance, an astounding discovery was made: the tomb of the Lord Jesus Christ was empty!  The startled first witnesses did not know what to think: had someone turned their worst grief into even greater agony by stealing their Lord’s body?  Who or what had been powerful enough to move the huge stone away from the entrance to the grave?  There were so many unanswered questions.  But God was about to turn that grief and confusion and unbelievable joy.  First, through angels who proclaimed, “He is not here. He has risen, just as he said!”  (Matthew 28:6)  Then through the appearance of the resurrected Christ Himself: “Jesus said to her, ‘Mary!’  She turned and said to Him in Hebrew, ‘Rabboni!’ (which means, Teacher).  Jesus said to her, ‘Stop clinging to Me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to My brethren, and say to them, “I ascend to My Father and your Father, and My God and your God.’” (John 20:16-17) 
The amazing truth defied earthly explanation.  Jesus, who was dead, was alive again!  The resurrection He had promised was real!  And so we celebrate again this week, even in the midst of mourning and fear of a worldwide pandemic.  We celebrate because Jesus has conquered the very same death that threatens us all, and has proven that He alone can show us the way to eternal life and peace.  May that peace pervade your thoughts this week as you continue to share the good news of life after death, through Jesus.

Save the Date: ADVANCE 2021

January 15-17, 2021 at Twin Rocks Camp and Conference Center.  We have just confirmed our booking for next year and are beginning to plan for another great weekend of inspired rest, recreation, inspiration and fellowship for pastors, missionaries and their wives.

Upcoming Events:

• Sandy Area Pastors’ Breakfast    April 15 CANCELLED – But I am looking for a volunteer to coordinate a Zoom meeting (online) so we can at least have a discussion over coffee that day.  Drop me a note if you are interested.

• Portland Pastors’ Prayer               April 16, 2020    10 AM                  Woodland Park Chapel

I continue to be impressed at the creative ways many of you are sharing the gospel, even as many of your churches have been temporarily shuttered, and personal visits are being discouraged.  You are still finding connection with your congregations, your community and Christ.  May He richly bless you as you encourage one another and remember the Resurrection.

Tom Hiscox, InFaith: NW Oregon Area Missionary
thiscox@infaith.org