Sunday, April 9, 2023

Resurrection of the Lord / Easter Day

The Revised Common Lectionary passages for the Lord’s Day are:
– First Reading: Acts 10:34-43 (or alternatively Jeremiah 31:1-6)
– Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
– Second Reading: Colossians 3:1-4 (or alternatively Acts 10:34-43)
– Gospel Reading: John 20:1-18 (or alternatively Matthew 28:1-10)

The liturgical color for the day is: White

The day of resurrection!  Alas, the day of resurrection comes.

The disciples were not present for the event.  They were locked in their homes.  They were in fear.  They were still trying to orient themselves to this ever-present reality that was beyond nightmare.

The women.  They dared to venture out.  Tomb open?  The scene is not as they expect it.

The day of resurrection!  Alas, the day of resurrection comes.

The disciples. The women. Us.  There is a part in all of us that just doesn’t quite get it.  Yet,

The day of resurrection!  Alas, the day of resurrection comes.

Christ comes to us not amazed that we still don’t get it or shocked by our doubts.  Today Christ comes to us with forgiveness.  Today Christ comes to us calling and shaking us back to what really matters.  Today Christ comes to us making a life-quake in us.  (Notice that earthquake in Matthew’s gospel—it’s more of a “life-quake” into something wholly new!)

He makes and moves heaven and earth to be in relationship with us.  That is what resurrection is—God moving heaven and earth to be in relationship with us.

The day of resurrection!  Alas, the day of resurrection comes.

The assignment…the result…the opportunity: “Do not be afraid; go and tell…” (Matthew 28:10)

The day of resurrection!  Alas, the day of resurrection comes.

Yes. Yes, to life.

—

Rev. Dr. Daris Bultena
General Presbyter and Stated Clerk