Focus on the exaltation of Christ strengthens our faith
Watch the service
Attendance was strong on a rainy Sunday morning as Pastor Kelvin Jones led in worship. He reminded the congregation that every Sunday is a mini celebration of the resurrection. But this is especially so in the weeks immediately following Easter. Anna Griffin read the morning’s text from Hebrews 4:12-16 which reminded us that our Risen and Exalted Lord is now interceding for us. This awareness helps us to have “Vibrant Faith.” As Hebrews also says,
Because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood. Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.
Heb. 7:24-25
Pastor Kelvin explained that since God is for us (Rom. 8:31), Jesus is our heavenly intercessor, and the Holy Spirit is guiding and assisting our prayers (Rom. 8:26,27), then we should be triply encouraged.
Pastor Kelvin challenged us that since God has encouraged our prayers so strongly through the intercession of Jesus, we should pray more than we do for others. Since Jesus loves those we are praying for more than we do, we know that Jesus is also praying with us for them.
Since Jesus ever lives to intercede, any time you pray–day or night–Jesus is already interceding. Every time you go to prayer you can be Jesus’ prayer partner.
Wesley Duewel
National Day of Prayer Service Planned
Pastor Jones and Prayer Leader JoAnne Jones announced two prayer emphases. On Sunday, April 30, many from the church will be participating in the Connecticut Prays Prayer Vigil. Our church’s assignment is to maintain twelve hours of constant prayer from noon to midnight every fifth Sunday. Then on Thursday, May 4 at 7 PM, we will hold our annual National Day of Prayer Service. First Selectwoman Eden Wimpfheimer is planning to be present to read the governor’s proclamation. Copper Hill UMC’s service is the officially registered event in the town of East Granby.