Easter reflections from Counties CEO Martin Erwin
“I am the resurrection and the life” John 11:25
This week, let us take every opportunity to declare our faith in Jesus who spoke in the face of death, loss, and grief and declared “I am the resurrection and the life.”
“I am the resurrection and the life” John 11:25
For many of us of a certain age, or history with Counties, last Thursday was a significant day. Many from the Counties family gathered in Warwick to give thanks to God for the life and work of Ivor Cooper, and to mourn with his family. We have shared the video link to the service below, and it is worth taking time to watch and reflect on a life lived to serve Christ and share the Gospel!
As we approach Easter once more, I was reminded of the words of Christ spoken to Martha at the graveside of her brother Lazarus. Approaching the grave, Jesus dared her to confess her faith in Him – not simply in the doctrine of resurrection, or faith in its future fulfilment. Aligning with doctrinal statements is one thing, and something that many are keen to do, almost as a test of orthodoxy. However, orthodoxy – that is, genuine Christian faith and living - are demonstrated through a radical commitment to Jesus Christ, and then living that commitment out! It was a thrill to hear those testimonies that shared how this genuine orthodoxy defined Ivor’s life.
This week, let us take every opportunity to declare our faith in Jesus who spoke in the face of death, loss and grief and declared “I am the resurrection and the life,” before asking Martha “Do you believe this?” Let us be bold this Easter weekend to hold up Christ as the answer, not simply ‘faith.’ ‘Faith’ is shared by all of humanity, but faith misplaced is sure to end in disaster. May God help us to point a lost world to a blood stained cross, an empty tomb, and an occupied throne and encourage people to radical orthodoxy – faith in Christ that is lived out by a demonstration of Holy Spirit power. A renewal of OUR hearts and a radical commitment to this message will change our world.
May the risen Christ greet you with his peace and power!