I hear the same thing every year in the weeks leading up to Easter. “This is our Super Bowl.” Anyone who knows Jesus Christ understands the importance of this weekend, and anyone who works at a church should understand that this weekend is why we do what we do. The resurrection of Jesus Christ on Easter is the proclamation of victory over the powers of darkness and death. WE WIN!
Last time I talked about the comparison of Easter to the Super Bowl, it was more about continuing strong after the weekend is over. I made the argument that Easter is not like the Super Bowl because there is no off season for Christians when the weekend is over. There is a tendency for pastors and other church employees to crash on Sunday after a long weekend of serving The Church though, so I want to challenge us to make this weekend a little more like the Super Bowl.
When the final clock hits zero and the champions of football are decided for the year, does the winning team go home and fall asleep on the couch? No. There is a party on the field that is bigger than any party they have ever been a part of. The confetti cannons fire, champaign bottles are shaken, and Gatorade is dumped on the head coach. The celebration continues long into the night and for weeks to come. Parades and parties are held in the home town and team is celebrated until their first loss in the following season.
If you work at a church, do not allow this weekend to drain you. This is our Super Bowl. The redemptive power of Jesus Christ on the cross has conquered sin and death. We should be energized this weekend as we celebrate our Savior and see the lost come into the Body of Christ. We don’t serve The Church to survive Easter weekend, but to proclaim the love of God this weekend and beyond. I’m not saying to neglect finding rest after a powerful weekend, but don’t allow the enemy to deceive you into believing that you just have to survive it.
If you are the friend or family of someone who works at a church, don’t ask us how we are holding up this weekend. Don’t ask us how we do it. This is our Super Bowl. It doesn’t matter if this has been a long week or more services than usual, this weekend is why we do what we do. Celebrate with us in the victory of our Savior. Bring your friends to church so they can hear the Word of God, and then come alongside of them to disciple them. This is your Super Bowl too.
If you are going to church this weekend because it is your yearly Easter tradition, allow your heart to be open to the Word of God. Humble yourself enough to truly see the victory of Jesus Christ. Allow the joy of His victory to fill your heart. This can be your Super Bowl as well if you want it.