Dear Fellow Worshippers, 

I can remember last year at this time when everyone was sheltered away in their own homes watching their phones or computers to check in for Church during Holy Week. In a season when most Churches are usually ramping up their outreach ministries, they were instead rushing to find a way to get their services online. Now, a year later, we are experts at navigating social media, but are we missing a key component of what this week used to mean for the Church? 

Resurrection Sunday used to see Churches bursting at the seams, sometimes even making room for a second or third service to accommodate the many visitors. Now our sanctuaries seem sparse at 40% capacity and something seems to be missing from our worship. Yes, many are watching online, and that makes up for those who cannot be there in person, but those potential visitors, the people that may have come to their one service a year, are still hesitant to venture out to public gatherings. 

So, what should we do? Should we just abandon any outreach efforts? 

There are many advantages to being online. People will hear a Gospel message that otherwise would have never stepped foot in a Church building. While they might not watch an entire worship service online, there are still ways that we can reach the lost. We can share a short, concise presentation of the Gospel, or a video from our daily readings for Holy Week.  

Jesus has called the Church to be the salt of the earth, the light of the world, and a city set on a hill. Where is the best place for Christians to reach their communities? At their own local Church, either in person or online. Let’s sing our hearts out in worship. Let’s pray with passion. Let’s teach the Word with the power of the Spirit. If you’re watching online, leave comments, amens, likes, and shares. Get dressed up, even if you’re not going anywhere. Post online that you’re making Holy Week a priority to remember what Christ has done for us on the cross. 

May these daily readings for Holy Week enhance your understanding of the Gospel of Matthew. Take the time to read each entry one day at a time. Slow down and truly meditate on the passages of Scripture. 

 

Seeking the Lord, 

Rev. Adam Miller

President and Host of Songtime Media