I prepared to preach my normal Easter sermon on the resurrection this Sunday. But when I woke up and learned that over 200 lives were lost and over 450 people were injured in church bombings, I felt compelled to change my sermon.
Christians in Sri Lanka were worshiping Christ on Easter morning. It was supposed to be a day of celebration and victory by Christ over the grave. As these believers sang, several bombs went off killing hundreds. A day of celebration quickly turned to a time of mourning and death. Yet, for these believers who lost their lives, they experienced the resurrection and victory over those who would cause destruction!
Pastor Knute Larson, a friend and mentor, once told me that there will be times when events in life provide an opportunity to answer questions about human tragedy. In particular, two questions: Where was God and how could this happen?
So, I spoke about the condition of the human heart and the darkness of mankind. But, I reminded the congregation that God sees these tragedies and cares for His people.
I would encourage us today to pray for the families who lost loved ones in this senseless attack. Pray that God will comfort and provide solace in their hearts. Also, pray for all our brothers and sisters in Christ around the world as they share the life-changing message of the gospel. But, we must not forget those who carried out this evil plan. We must remember that they need Christ too. Pray that God will speak to them and they will seek forgiveness and trust in Christ as their Lord and Savior!
