One advantage of Easter–the focus is almost always on the story of Jesus. By now many pulpits have returned to moralizing: we must/should/ought to…. This is “what to do” without the “why to do it.” The gospel is the story of Jesus. It is powerful—for salvation and for life. Tell the story of Jesus. Help Jesus’ disciples look to Jesus. Never tire of talking about Jesus. Urge everyone to look to Jesus. He is the pioneer (author) of our faith, he is the prototype (perfecter) of faithfulness, he is the promise that exaltation comes to those who faithfully endure.
Jesus is faithful and merciful high priest. Because he is faithful, we can cast off entangling sin. Because he is merciful, we can lay aside the burdens of life. He opens our way to God’s throne where we find forgiving grace and strengthening mercy. The message of Jesus constantly gives hope for the future and guards against weariness on life’s journey.
Whether it is the message you hear from the pulpit or not—-Look to Jesus!