The 2017 New York Easter Retreat gathering concluded on April 16th in New York.
After the Easter Service was given, a group photo was taken inside of the Immanuel Chapel. Immediately following the service was a time of testimony during which all members had the opportunity to share how the grace of the messages had impacted them the past few days. A total of 12 members came to give testimony. A very diverse group was present during the testimony time including a pastor from Germany, an Olivet Teen Mission intern from India, several members from Montreal, Canada.
The retreat finished with a graceful atmosphere as those who shared testified how the messages had reminded them of the truth of Jesus' sacrifice and the wonderful love they felt participating in the retreat.
In Los Angeles, Rev. Andrew T. Lin delivered a message from John 20: 10-18 and Galatians 2:20 to meditate the meaning of the Easter and Resurrection with all the congregation gathered Sunday.
Easter is the most important day in the calendar of Christians and it's also the day we memorize the resurrection of Jesus Christ. We always had trembling heart towards Easter. We set the goal before Easter and we have the anxious heart prepare well.
Rev. Lin shared, "As the years go by, what I realized is that Jesus is being formed inside of me. Not only the glory, also the suffering, just like Paul said, there are good things and bad things, glory and dishonor. The more I taste all aspects life of Jesus, as he tried to live for the kingdom of God, the worry and the pain, the danger, that I taste, I come to know Jesus more and to see Jesus clearly. It's not just concept but really the Lord resurrected inside of our hearts."
The resurrected Lord is not a concept, He ascended to heaven, He resurrected inside of our hearts. Rev. Lin gave the encouragement to all the members, "My hope for all of us today, our faith has no longer fear to hardship even death. Go beyond of these, we can really live boldly for our faith."
On the other side of the world, Easter retreat for Asia Pacific was held in Korea and concluded within abundant grace of God as offering Easter Service.
Pastor Simon Jang preached sermon with the text Mark 16:1-7. He said "Love is stronger than death. No one can stop us those who realized that cross is not the end. As witness of resurrection and disciples carrying the cross, we should not stop."
This service is not the end, but new beginning and turning point of our life. We should go to Galilee, succeeding works of Jesus at the there. We should live at the field. P. Jang said "Until all nations united as one body of Jesus, and all churches to be one, let's preach this gospel at our life, throughout our city and whole nations. This is only our goal."