Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week. And once again, a donkey will be a part of our services. If you are a little uncomfortable seeing a donkey come down the aisle of our worship space, or at least, surprised, you will be just like the disciples and the people in Jerusalem on the first Palm Sunday.
Jesus could have found the finest horse, or even a chariot, but he chose to come into Jerusalem on a donkey, to let the world know what kind of King he was. This was confusing for the people who were cheering, “Hosanna,” which means Save Me! They were looking for a different kind of king.
The parade of people was big but would dissipate through the week.
The parade of people waving palms that day was really a pathway to the cross.
This wasn’t the first time that big crowds became small crowds.
Earlier in his ministry, when many were following Jesus, Jesus explained what it meant to follow Him. Here’s what happened …
From this time many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him. And then Jesus’ question to the 12 disciples: You do not want to leave too, do you?” John 6:66-67
Sunday we will explore his question as we begin our Holy Week journey with Jesus to the cross.
Tomorrow, Our Easter Egg hunt for 2 pm at Northampton Community College. As I write, we have 838 people signed up for this event. What a wonderful opportunity to host so many and invite them to celebrate the risen Jesus.
On Sunday – Palm Sunday, our children will lead our processional at all of our services. We will wave our palm branches as we remember how Jesus came into Jerusalem as a humble King.
On Maundy Thursday at 7 pm, we will have a communion and Tenebrae service at BECA. Our choir, led by Tom Goeman, will lead us through a powerful service. Childcare will be provided (up to age 5).
On Good Friday, we invite you to come to our Locust Street Campus anytime for a Good Friday Experience.
Then, EASTER, we celebrate the resurrection of our Lord, Jesus Christ!
Our services at BECA will be at the same weekly times. Note that the 8:30 and 9:45 services will be led by our choir and orchestra. Our 11 am will be led by our worship band.
EASTER INVITATIONS – I hope you will take some of the Easter Services invitation cards (found at the Connect Center in the Lobby) and invite your friends to join you for Easter. People are especially open to an invitation on Easter Sunday.
Finally, save the date for events coming in the Spring and Summer.
Our Serve Day is May 21. It is so good to bring back this important event where we together serve the Lehigh Valley in Jesus name.
Our next generation team has planned an incredible summer. See below for opportunities for our GRACE Students and GRACE Kids.
In resurrection anticipation!
Dr. Marnie Crumpler
Senior Pastor