We Know the Ending!

By Michael Youssef, Ph.D. While witnessing one team take a lopsided lead in a sporting event, we sometimes keep watching because of the slight chance that the losing team could mount a comeback. More often than not, that team fails, but at least there is hope. When Jesus died on the cross and rose from the grave, He secured the victory for us. Jesus’ triumph over death also gave us the victory over death’s grip, both here on earth and in eternity. No longer do we have to be held in bondage to sin on earth. No longer do we have to pay the price of death for our sins on earth either. Jesus’ sacrifice covered it all. Life can be difficult. It can even feel gloomy and full of despair. Yet, just as Jesus’ sacrifice gives us new life, His last words before His death fill us with hope: “It is finished.” Like watching a movie for the second time where all the suspense is removed, so is living our lives here on earth if we are walking with the hope and assurance of salvation in Christ. We know the ending. God is victorious. Satan, sin, and death are defeated. Jesus’ death and resurrection give us eternal life, and His final words on the cross give us encouragement, spurring us to press on because God is the victor and we are His people. While the enemy may make a last-ditch effort to discourage you and to divert the plans God has for your life, he will not win. God loves you and when you place your faith and hope in Him, He will deliver you from all the wiles of the enemy. The victory has already been won! Prayer: Lord, reveal to me how I can walk more in the victory of Christ each day. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen. “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.” (Psalm 20:7)

Weekend News for May 4 & 5

Hello Holland First Family, Here are a few items to keep in mind as we head into the weekend… •This Sunday is the last day to order flowers for Mother’s Day. Stop by the designated table to purchase a dozen roses for $20. Flowers will be delivered on Mother’s Day. Any extra flowers will be available for purchase that day but to guarantee that you will have roses to give, it will be better to place an order. •Rick Pasquale will be with us Sunday, May 5th for both our 10am & 6pm services. We will have communion in the morning. Please note that the S.N.A.C. potluck for Sunday night has been moved to May 19th •Fiesta Lunches 2 Go will be available for pick up after Sunday morning’s service. If you did not get a chance to place an order you may still stop by the kitchen; any extra lunches will be sold on a first come first serve basis. As for next week… •There will be NO Wednesday Electives May 8th due to Tulip Time. Have a BLESSED weekend! Pastoral Staff www.hollandfirst.com