The Resurrection of Jesus is the centerpiece of the Bible, the event of the ages, a celebration of Jesus’ conquest over death proving He is God! For more than two thousand years, believers have gathered together with joyful hearts to commemorate this historic event.
The power of the day comes not from the pageantry large or small but from the event itself. The Savior of the World has risen from the dead! (“He has risen indeed!”) How you celebrate is up to you.
Have you ever wanted to do your own Easter celebration service? It's not as difficult as you think.
Plan Ahead
To do this well requires a small amount of preparation.
One week before celebrating on Resurrection Sunday, prayerfully consider these elements:
- Who will you invite to join you? Why have you chosen them?
- Select at least two worship songs that hold rich meaning for you. Use one at the opening and one for the end. If you are inviting those considering Christianity or newer believers, be sensitive to their level of understanding. Choose songs without words difficult for them to understand or to sing. Consider the ages of any children present as well. The point is not to choose childish songs but to select songs everyone can easily understand. Avoid “Christianese” which can unintentionally divide us from others and take away from a clear simple Gospel message.
- Choose your Scripture verses. Which gospel presentation of the Resurrection account speaks to you most strongly or works for a multigenerational or an audience considering Christianity? Prayerfully read each one. (Matthew 28; Mark 16; Luke 24; John 20.)
- Keep the timeframe relatively short. This is not necessarily a time to preach. It is a time to reflect and celebrate as each person participates. Take more time as needed based on the responses of your guests.
- If you wish, read or discuss the accounts of Jesus’ crucifixion as an introduction.
Sunday Morning
Decide which room to meet in and make it as comfortable as possible.
Briefly explain what you’ll be doing (introductory prayer, a worship song, reading Scripture together, a short discussion time, a closing song.)
Begin with a simple prayer followed by a song.
Read your chosen Scripture together. Just a reminder that some people find reading aloud difficult. Ask for volunteers but do not specifically ask anyone unless you are 100% confident they will be comfortable doing so.
Consider asking open ended questions of your guests before you close with one final song and a prayer. Be sure to share your own thoughts as well, but it is best to do so after others have answered.
o A few ideas: How does reading about the Resurrection of Jesus impact you? What does it make you think? How does it make you feel?
End with prayer and thank everyone for joining you.
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