We celebrated Easter, the resurrection of Jesus, this past Sunday. For us, as United Methodists, the Easter celebration holds special significance, as it embodies the essence of our faith and calls us to live as "Easter People" throughout the year. But what does it mean to be an Easter People from a Wesleyan perspective?
Wesleyan theology, founded by John Wesley in the 18th century, emphasizes the transformative power of God's grace and the call to live a life of holiness and love. At the heart of Wesleyan teaching is the concept of "Christian perfection" or "entire sanctification," which John Wesley described as "loving God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength and our neighbors as ourselves." This pursuit of holiness is intricately tied to the Easter message of redemption and renewal.
Easter is more than just a historical event to us; it is a living reality that shapes our identity and mission. Just as Christ triumphed over sin and death through his resurrection, We believe that we are called to overcome the powers of sin and darkness in our lives and in the world around us. This victory is not achieved through human effort alone but through the grace of God, freely offered to all who believe.
Living as Easter People means embracing the hope and joy that come from knowing Christ is risen. It means experiencing the power of resurrection in our own lives, as we are transformed by the love of God and empowered by the Holy Spirit to live faithfully and fruitfully. As John Wesley famously proclaimed, "The best of all is, God is with us."
One of the key aspects of being an Easter People from a Wesleyan perspective is the emphasis on community and connection. Our Wesleyan theology places a strong emphasis on the importance of Christian fellowship and accountability in the journey of faith. Just as the early Christians gathered together to celebrate the resurrection and share in communion, we, as United Methodists, are called to support and encourage one another as we strive to live out our faith in the world.
Furthermore, being an Easter People means bearing witness to the hope and redemption found in Christ. We believe that we are called to be ambassadors of reconciliation, sharing the good news of God's love and forgiveness with a world in need of hope and healing. This mission is not limited to Easter Sunday but extends throughout the year, as we seek to embody the love of Christ in all we do.
Being an Easter People is a call to live in the light of Christ's resurrection each day. It is a call to embrace the hope and joy of Easter, to pursue holiness and love, and to bear witness to the transformative power of God's grace. As United Methodists the challenge is for us to continue to live as Easter People each day, proclaiming the good news of Christ's victory over sin and death, and striving to bring about God's kingdom of love and justice here on earth. Friends, with God's help, I believe we are up to the challenge!
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Owen