This morning, our Chapel Team led the recitation of the pledges, the Lord’s Prayer, O Canada and the Land Acknowledgement. Then, one of the leaders read the passage from Mark 11: 22 -25. Before Mr. Bailey led the first song, he explained that God does not give us everything that we ask for but He does give us things we need. However, we must also be ready to forgive others as well. This led to his introduction of the song “Lead me to the Cross” in the preparation for Easter.
Next, representatives from our Grade 5A class shared details about our upcoming Care and Share event on Wednesday, March 27th. We will be supporting Earth Rangers and their Project 2050 initiative.
Before our next song, another Chapel Team member read the passage from Philippians 2:5-7. Mr. Bailey used it to help explain that Easter is about two things – service and sacrifice. Jesus came as a servant in human form to save us from our sins by dying on the cross in our place. With this, he introduced the second song of the service – “Make Me A Servant”. Two Chapel Team members led the singing while the rest supported with doing the actions.
Our guest speaker today was Pastor Mark Griffith via video. His message focused on Barnabas, the “Son of Encouragement”. He briefly shared the conversion story of Saul and explained that the apostles were not convinced that the infamous Saul, who had persecuted Christians, had truly changed. However, after Barnabas met with Saul (who now changed his name to Paul) and saw the transformation, he encouraged the disciples to also accept Paul. Barnabas supported and encouraged Paul in his new ministry. With this, Pastor Griffith introduced the verse from 1 Thessalonians 5:11. He shared that God wants us to encourage others just like Barnabas did. Pastor Griffith reminded us that when we encourage others, we are showing the love of Christ, that we want others to do well, and that we are living for Christ! He also reminded the audience to encourage all those around us, not just our friends. Pastor Griffith concluded in prayer, thanking God for His Goodness towards us and asking Him to help us to encourage others and to show His love.
Before Mr. Bailey introduced the next song, he used the opportunity to encourage the students and asked them to think about how they can be more like Jesus, especially as Easter approaches. Mr. Bailey and Ms. Wong then led the singing of “God of Revival”, which filled the gym with praise.
Mr. Bailey ended the service in prayer, thanking the Lord for His sacrifice and asking Him to revive our appreciation for His love and sacrifice this Easter.