Do you know when you have something you’ve looked forward to for what seems like forever?
And then it’s over?
My wife growing up, always looked forward to seeing her Aunt Ellen and Uncle Norris during the holidays. They lived about three hours away. They were two of her favorite people in the world. And every holiday, she really looked forward to seeing them.
But then the holiday came and went.
She would have a great time with Ellen and Norris celebrating the holiday.
And then they would leave.
She would describe her mood as the “Ellen and Norris just left” feeling. She still uses that phrase to describe the letdown after something that she’s been anticipating for a long time is finally over.
For many pastors, Easter Monday is their Aunt Ellen and Uncle Norris moment.
As church leaders, we put so much effort into special days like Easter. I know firsthand how much time, energy, and love goes into the planning and carrying out of a big Easter weekend.
The Monday after Easter can sometimes feel like a bit of a crash, right? All the excitement and anticipation of the big day has passed, and you might wonder if it was all worth it.
Trust me, it was.
Think about all the people who walked through your doors yesterday, some of them perhaps for the first time. They heard your heartfelt messages and saw the genuine warmth and love that you and your church have for one another. That's powerful stuff.
Sure, you might not see the full impact of your efforts right away, but I promise you, the seeds you planted in people's hearts have the potential to grow into something truly amazing. Your dedication to creating a welcoming and inspiring Easter celebration can touch lives in ways you might never know about.
For some, it may have been the first time they heard about the sacrifice that Jesus made for them. For others, your Easter experience may have been the spark that will rekindle a dying faith.
And the truth is, you will never know most of the results that yesterday will bring in people’s lives.
As you start this new week, I want to encourage you. What you do is important. And this Kingdom thing that you’ve given your life to matters. It matters A LOT.
Carry on. And have a great Easter Monday.