It is Easter; let there be light! Let there be color and music and joy. In everything, let there be joy as we worship this day. We certainly understand that, for many, this day is driven by tradition. And that’s a good thing. We don’t have to reinvent ourselves every time we celebrate this highest and holiest of days. Meeting the expectations of those who are a part of the community can be a powerful way to worship on Easter Sunday. Can it really be Easter in our tradition if we don’t sing “Christ the Lord Is Risen Today”? I don’t think so. But there are new songs that your community has not sung that could be sung. The key is a balance between tradition and innovation, between the comfortable familiar and the edgy new territory. Lean into the former and sprinkle in the latter and things will go well.

Our Lenten playlist series has emphasized the power of music to lead us into worship. Easter is the epitome of that belief. We need to hear great music on Easter Sunday. But even more importantly, we need to sing great music. The participatory element of worship is essential. We are the worshipers, after all. The ones in front are prompters helping the whole congregation offer their best as we gather in worship. We all love being captivated by an excellent choir. We all are moved by a powerful, compelling preacher. But worship happens when the whole congregation stands to sing, or bows to pray, or offers a testimony to some or to all. Worship comes from the hearts of the whole body who have gathered. So, the question becomes, “How do we provide avenues for the people to engage?”

We worry about the logistics of movement through a crowded sanctuary, but somehow, we can make our way to a prayer station, or a cross, or an empty tomb and be present, offer a prayer, make a connection. In the coming in and going out, conversation can be encouraged. Prime certain hosts to seek those standing alone and talk to them. When we come on Easter, we are longing for Resurrection.

Let there be life in the midst of the congregation. Turn the “passing of the peace” into an engagement time, a shared prayer time. Tell folks to ask, “How can I pray for you?” instead of saying “Good morning? (or maybe in addition to saying, “Good morning!”) Be gentle and respectful but be hospitable and invitational. And always remember that the invitation is to a life of faith, a call to discipleship, not to join a church. Joining the church should be helpful and a benefit to that life. Lead with Jesus.

PLAYLIST SONG

“Light of a Clear Blue Morning” by Dolly Parton

We’ve come through the shadows of Holy Week, and Easter morning has dawned once again. Christ is risen! Whether 2,000 years ago or today, this is a simple, yet irrational declaration: Christ is risen! We don’t fully understand Resurrection. We can’t make logical sense of it. But it is perfect and fitting for God, whose steadfast love endures forever because even death cannot stop Love. So, listen and sing along with Dolly Parton’s “Light of a Clear Blue Morning,” giving thanks to God whose love never ends, never fails, and brings us into new life today and every day.