“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16
Easter is the great celebration of the resurrection of our Lord, Jesus. The world celebrates Easter in so many ways. Families gather to eat and celebrate; churches are filled as we gather to sing that, “Christ the Lord is Risen Today.” The resurrection of Jesus is worthy of celebration. Easter changed the world. Because of Easter, we have hope and joy. Because of Easter, we know that Love wins.
Another way that people celebrate Easter is by serving. It is natural to want to serve others when we experience the hope and joy of Easter. Luke Flerlage is a young man who wants to share the joy of Easter with as many people as he possibly can. Luke Flerlage is only 6 years old and yet is helping to lead the way in sharing the love and joy of Easter with the people of Missouri. When he was just age 3, Luke joined his mom, Beverly, working at a ministry known as “Alleluia Baskets.” Luke and Beverly worked with Karen Melser, the organizer of Alleluia Baskets. Their work is to make sure that as many children as possible have an Easter basket, filled with goodies, to help bring joy on Easter.
Luke loved filling baskets for other kids. He told his mom that, “He wanted to help more kids smile.” They met with Karen Melser and began to plan on how to grow the ministry. They were able to secure the use of a large box truck and Luke spent much of the next year asking people to help fill the truck with supplies to help make other kids smile. Luke’s mom said, “He spoke to everyone he knew and everyone he met and said, ‘I’m collecting things for Alleluia Baskets, we’re helping kids smile on Easter.” With Luke’s leadership, nearly 50 volunteers unloaded over 12,000 from the box truck. They worked that day to pack hundreds of baskets and share the love and joy of Easter with so many children.
Easter is worthy of celebration! Easter is the event that inspires us all to share hope and joy with the world. Luke Flerlage reminds us that we are able to share God’s love, regardless of age or ability. When we serve others with the same love that God has shown us, we will join Luke in bringing smiles to others.
– Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
