“Normal” Is No Longer Good Enough

by Rev. Darneather Murph-Heath,
District Superintendent

Greetings in the name of Jesus Christ!

We have transitioned from Easter (Resurrection) to Post-Easter (Post-Resurrection), and this is a very good and blessed thing. May this new season bring excitement, joy and true open hearts. 

The disciples hid behind locked doors (sheltering in place) and the Lord came in and showed himself to the disciples so that they would believe. He pronounced peace to them and blew the breath of the Holy Spirit upon them to prepare them to continue the flow of ministry. 

Let Jesus blow his breath upon you so that, in this Post-Resurrection Season, you will not settle for “normal,” but will seek the best. In my sermon Sunday for First UMC Arlington Heights, I stated that “normal” is no longer good enough. Pastors and congregations do not seek to get back to normal: God wants more from you and for you. You should want more for yourselves and for others. “Normal” is no longer good enough!

We are on the other side of the resurrection: no more hiding, no more locked doors, no more fear of those who try to control your destiny but do not have the power. Power belongs to God!

May the God we serve bless and keep you. This is my prayer!