Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe… – Hebrews 12:28

With Easter Sunday one week in the rearview mirror, this is a good moment to share one of my favorite church stories. It’s something that has happened more than once over the years – and it holds a message that is, I believe, critically important to understand.

Rebekah and I were living in Brandon, circa 2006. Our church – First Presbyterian – was growing, overflowing with life and enthusiasm, and we enjoyed good crowds at both worship services every week.

Of course, being Easter Sunday, we had more visitors than usual and – after worship – I was chatting with a young family who had been sitting right in front of me.

“We loved everything about it,” she said. “The music, the atmosphere, all the children, the way the preacher made the message so positive and on-point.”

“Both the ministers are so enthusiastic and genuine” her husband added. “Everything here seems so positive and real. Even our kids were listening!”

“I’m glad it was a positive experience,” I smiled. “I hope we see you again.”

It was then that the man said the words I have heard repeated on many occasions over the years.

“Oh yes,” he said with all sincerity. “If church was like this all the time we’d be here every week.”

Then, before I had a chance to say anything, two of our families – people with children in elementary school – overheard the conversation and leaned in at the same time. “But church is like this every week!” they both said, introducing themselves.

Every Sunday is Easter!

Here’s what I believe is important to understand. Vibrant, active, faithful worshipping communities celebrate the reality of Easter, the victory of life, every Sunday morning and the experience is not only powerful and exhilarating but it feeds us, it nourishes our souls.

Easter morning may have been more like a banquet featuring fillet mignon instead of meatloaf, and an extra scoop of ice-cream with the apple pie, but there is always good food for the soul, lovingly prepared and nutritious, always covered in love and enthusiasm, and always filling us up in every way possible.

If last week’s Easter Sunday in church resonated in any way, then be assured of this: community worship with God’s good people is the same every week – only more so.

By “only more so” I mean what the hymn promises – “Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow, blessings all mine and ten thousand beside…”

Great is thy faithfulness,
Great is thy faithfulness,
Morning by morning new mercies I see.