The Masters

Every year the first part of April brings us The Masters. Augusta National hosts the most prestigious golf tournament in the world. The tournament draws players and fans from around the world to the most beautiful golf course ever designed. Many years ago a friend of mine used to run barefoot on the ninth hole as a child. The grass felt like carpet. Of course this was at night to avoid being caught! The history is amazing as the course has hosted presidents to amateurs. Thousands of people try to get a ticket for just one day, even if it's just a practice round. Definitely one of the most difficult sporting event ticket to get.
What is also amazing is the location of the course. You can drive right by the course and not even know it if you are not paying attention. It is tucked away behind large bushes and fences. Hidden in the city of Augusta. If you get the chance to ride up Magnolia Lane, you feel like you are entering into another world. The outside world is shut out as no phones or electronics are allowed on the course. You are truly unplugged. It really does feel like another world!
I am always in awe of The Masters tournament and the pageantry that surrounds the event. Very exclusive in so many ways with every serious golfer's bucket list has it at the top. As great as The Masters experience is, there is another experience that is even greater!
Every year we have the opportunity to celebrate Easter. Almost as though it is tucked away in our world and many drive by through life without taking notice. It is exclusive, for only those who put faith in Jesus Christ have membership privileges. It's not that it is so hard to gain entrance because the price has been paid in full. It is by invitation and Christ has invited everyone. Sadly, only a few will respond. A placed is being built for us that is beyond even our greatest imagination. The celebration is out of this world!
You have access to the most coveted place ever created, not by man but by God. Just imagine running barefoot across the beautiful place created by God just for us. The cross of Easter is God's grand invitation and the empty tomb is the celebration. All the hazards and obstacles in life have been defeated. The ceremony is set for eternity!
If you have the opportunity to attend The Masters, by all means go! The experience is simply breathtaking. But whatever you do, DON'T miss God's greater invitation for all eternity! Put your faith in Jesus Christ and you will win in life and eternity!

From the Heart,
Pastor BR