In this episode of the Real Life Overtime podcast, Pastor Jim Putman and campus pastors Craig Miles, Jim Blazon, and Gabe Cleave gather to explore the kickoff of the new sermon series, The Weight of Glory. As Easter approaches, the team delves into the deeper meanings behind the events of Holy Week, the importance of living with eternal perspective, and how the resurrection transforms every aspect of our lives. It’s a conversation filled with insight, vulnerability, and encouragement for both group leaders and individual listeners navigating life’s ups and downs.
Key Takeaways
1. The Dual Meaning of “Weight”
- The series title plays on both meanings of "weight"—the heaviness of suffering (W-E-I-G-H-T) and the act of waiting (W-A-I-T) for the glory to come.
- Life mirrors the journey of Holy Week: triumph, tragedy, silence, and ultimately resurrection.
2. We All Live Somewhere in the Story
- Whether in a high, a place of tragedy, confusion, or silence, everyone can find themselves in the journey from Palm Sunday to Easter.
- The experiences of Jesus and His disciples during this time are deeply relatable and still speak to our current realities.
3. The Resurrection Changes Everything
- Easter isn’t just a celebration—it’s a declaration of hope and transformation.
- The resurrection either changes nothing or everything. It brings the possibility of real change—freedom from fear, addiction, and hopelessness.
4. Suffering and Joy Can Coexist
- Drawing from 1 Peter, the team reflects on the tension of being both “exiles” and “chosen.”
- True joy is often found in and through suffering, rather than in its absence.
5. Don’t Miss the Mission in the Waiting
- While we wait for Jesus' return or for the full realization of glory, we’re called to mission: making disciples, inviting others, and pressing into community.
- The church isn’t just a place we visit—it’s the body we live and serve with daily.
Discussion Questions
- Where do you currently find yourself in the Holy Week narrative—celebration, confusion, suffering, or waiting?
- How does the resurrection change the way you view your present circumstances?
- What prevents you from living with an eternal perspective during difficult seasons?
- Have you ever seen God use your suffering to bring about joy or growth?
- Who is God prompting you to invite this Easter? How might you step out in faith this week?
Action Steps
- Invite with Intentionality: Identify 1–3 people in your contacts to personally invite to Easter services or the Sean McDowell event.
- Live in Community: Stay connected with your group or community—especially in seasons of waiting or suffering.
- Practice Gratitude: Start each day this week by thanking God for both past faithfulness and future promises.
- Shift Perspective: Take time to reflect on how temporary struggles are shaping your eternal story.
- Celebrate Easter Personally: Amid the busyness, don’t miss what Easter means for you. Celebrate it as a believer with renewed gratitude and awe.
Closing Encouragement
As we walk through this Easter season, let’s remember that the resurrection isn’t just a moment in history—it’s the turning point of every believer’s life. Whether you’re in the highs or the lows, God’s story is still unfolding in you. Let this be the year where Easter isn’t just another event but a personal awakening. Live each day with eyes fixed on eternity, rooted in community, and filled with boldness to invite others into this life-changing journey. The resurrection changes everything—and it can change you.
Scripture References
- 1 Peter 1
- Romans 8
- 2 Corinthians 5
- John 14:27
- Hebrews 12:2
- Matthew 28:18-20
- Hebrews 3:12-13
