Making Community Connections During Easter Season

It’s that time of year again! For many of us in the Midwest, the frigid days are starting to disappear, and in their place, those sweet, fragrant spring days are making their presence known. For our church, this means Easter preparation is in full swing as we rehearse for our annual, full-scale Easter drama. Easter season, whether you’re involved in a drama or a full Easter service or you host a family Easter dinner, can be a very busy season of preparation. It’s also a time of worship for us, as we reflect on God’s sacrifice and victory over death. Personally, I spend a day or two leading up to Easter devoted to just thanksgiving and reflection on the crucifixion and the love of God. It always changes my perspective and reminds me why we do what we do and how powerful the grace and mercy of God is in my life. Jesus has changed our lives and given us a hope beyond this world!

If we’re not careful, we can get too busy with the preparation and reflection, and we can miss a prime opportunity to share the hope we have with others! If you have flyers or cards for your church, this is a great time to pass them out. Obviously, it’s not the date on the calendar or the special Easter song that changes a life, but we know the Word of God works, and the presence of God is powerful. Just you inviting a hungry soul could change them forever.

I know that inviting people or stepping out of our comfort zone can be uncomfortable, so I thought I’d share ways to be intentional and effective when it comes to reaching for people. This doesn’t just apply to the Easter season of course, but we do know that many who are not regular church-goers will attend on Easter Sunday out of tradition and respect.

First tip, pray before you go anywhere. Sounds elementary, but praying before you go about your day that God will guide your steps and give you awareness of peoples’ needs is a game changer! Prayer is key because prayer works! The more you pray and seek the heart of God, the more compassion you will feel when you meet people, it’s the love of God working in you! Pray God would lead you to key people who are hungry and watch who walks into your path that day.

The places you frequent, try to go there at a consistent time. For example, if you’re a Walmart shopper, try to plan your grocery run at the same time each week and continue to pray for God’s guidance. You’ll likely find an employee that works during that shift to be an encouragement and a light to!

Your neighbors! I feel like as a child, we always knew our neighbors and regularly conversed with them if we saw them. I would go over to many of their houses to play or swim and they would bring vegetables from their garden or desserts to my mom over the back fence. Nowadays it’s pretty common for everyone to keep to themselves but you can change that! Take over a dessert and introduce yourself. There may be some neighbors who don’t seem interested, but I’ve found the majority are very receptive and love having friendly neighbors that genuinely care. This is a way to let the love of God show through you and your family. Care for people and watch what friendships will start to form!

Be intentional in your community and look for opportunities to serve people. Show them love and kindness. People in today’s world are hurting, and we have the answer! It could be as simple as returning their cart for them at Walmart, or being extra patient when they’re serving their late-night shift at Chili’s. If you feel God prompting you to invite them or offer a Bible study, obey the Holy Ghost!

Let’s be intentional and invite our communities to experience the same power and hope that we have!