Postma Post: Let's Be Realistic

"I am neither an optimist nor pessimist. Jesus Christ is risen from the dead."

This powerful quote from Lesslie Newbigin has resonated deeply with me, and I've shared it often in churches and at classis meetings these past months. It beautifully encapsulates the hope we have as followers of Christ. More than that, it anchors us in the reality that Christ's death and resurrection aren't dependent on our fluctuating emotions of hope or despair, but on a historical event.

This reminder has been particularly meaningful as I serve within the Christian Reformed Church. Sometimes it feels like there is a lot to be pessimistic about, and other times a lot to be optimistic about. But either way, Jesus Christ is risen from the dead and he has a plan for his church.

Obviously, it also connects with Easter and, I think, our Reformed emphasis on the holistic renewal of all things in Christ. This renewal is accomplished not just in Jesus' death, but also, crucially, through his resurrection.

One of my greatest joys in serving within the CRC is witnessing the breadth of our shared ministries. These ministries reflect the diverse ways we believe Jesus is working to renew all things through his death, resurrection, and the power of his Spirit. Collectively, we are helping to cultivate personal relationships with Jesus and foster our spiritual growth. We equip churches to lead people into deeper worship and experience the Word of God in powerful ways. We have ministries that encourage us to share the good news of Jesus with our neighbors, both locally and globally. We have ministries that embody the gospel in both word and deed, reflecting a redemption that is not only spiritual but embraces the whole world. We have educational institutions that form the whole person, including their minds, to take every thought captive for Christ. And we pursue justice and reconciliation in the wider public sphere.

We do all these things because we’re Reformed, and we believe redemption is as broad as creation. And we do these things collectively as a denomination, but also within our own congregations and local communities.

My hope this Easter weekend is that we will celebrate in ways that reflect our rich theological heritage and help us to pay attention to how we live it out in real, tangible, and redemptive ways.

Let’s not be optimistic or pessimistic. Let’s be realistic. Jesus Christ is risen from the dead.

With gratitude,

Al