After I finished preaching my Easter sermon this year, I found myself reflecting deeply: What would the risen Christ want to say to us today? As I pondered that question, I turned to the lectionary readings for the Easter season and noticed something powerful: part of our readings comes from the Book of Revelation.
Revelation is a book that Hollywood has often sensationalized, filling it with imagery of destruction and fear. Yet, as Presbyterians, we often speak or write very little about it. I believe that needs to change. Revelation is not primarily a book about fear—it is a message of hope, perseverance, and renewal, especially for the Church. It offers us a direct word from Jesus himself to his people: a message we need more than ever.
Thus, beginning this May, we will embark on a new sermon series titled, “Short Letters from Jesus: Messages to the Seven Churches of Revelation.” These seven churches were real congregations in Asia Minor—what we now know as modern-day Turkey. When John wrote from the island of Patmos, he followed a practical geographical route, starting with Ephesus, the city closest to him.
Although these letters are short, they are packed with profound encouragement, urgent warnings, and timeless lessons. Each one carries the heartbeat of Christ for his Church: calls to rekindle our first love, endure through suffering, resist the temptation to compromise, awaken from spiritual complacency, and live with faithful courage no matter the season.
Each Sunday, we will open one of these divine letters and ask two guiding questions: What is Jesus saying to this church? And what is he saying to us—both as a congregation and as individual followers—today? I am excited to see how the Spirit will challenge and encourage us through these ancient but living words.
I invite you to come with open hearts and listening ears. Come and be renewed in your faith. Come and be reminded of Christ’s enduring love for his Church. And if you know someone who could use a word of encouragement or a fresh sense of purpose, please invite them to join us—either in person every Sunday or by watching our services on Facebook or YouTube. As Revelation 2:7 says, “Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” May we be ready to listen.
Finally, I am thrilled to share some wonderful news: on May 11, we will joyfully welcome two new members into our Erwin Presbyterian family—Sam Engle and Sterling Simpson. I had the pleasure of walking with them through our new membership class in March and April, and it was a rich time of conversation, learning, and fellowship. Please join me in praying for Sam and Sterling as they step into this new chapter of their journey of faith. Let’s also be sure to extend to them a warm and heartfelt welcome.
Blessings to you all,
Dr. Ramy Marcos