Easter Sermon: Part Three

Part Three of my Easter Sermon - Keith F. (Nelmes URC)
12th April 2020

As those that attend Nelmes will know I like using articles from the Newspaper to highlight points that I want to make. Here is an extract from an article written by: Juliet Rosenfield (who is a psychotherapist) “While loneliness may sore for some, technology, even if it’s just a landline, can really help.” let’s talk to one another & remember at this Easter time that Jesus died for us!
 
I would like to close with an extract from Kate Brealey “Fresh from the Word”
 
This is part of her lesson for Good Friday: For those that cannot relate to the physical violence of the crucifixion, this aspect of Jesus’ treatment may be more familiar, the old saying goes “sticks & stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” However I think we know that this is often not the reality, especially in the age of social media. Cruel words can be incredibly damaging, especially for younger people, and may have tragic consequences. Perhaps you have had your words taken and used against you, or seen this happen to people you know, or to those in the public eye? Or maybe you have done it to others. This aspect of the crucifixion narrative reminds us that Jesus new the pain words cause. His death on the cross is a sign of his full humanity and demonstrates his understanding of our human condition, including all the forms of violence this entails” Kate Brealey
 
Where do you see words used cruelly? How can you challenge this or model something different? You will have noted in my last Blog that I was using WORDS to link my first three sermons, I think at this time of such uncertainty we need to ensure we use WORDS wisely, remembering Jesus died for us & for the forgiveness of sins!! Wouldn’t it be a wonderful world if we all carried through the principal of being kind to one another?
 
A prayer to close:
Take with you joy of the risen Lord,
And share the good news with all those you meet.  Amen