Focus

Let yourself become open to God and the knowledge that comes from the Word. Ask God for peace at this time.

Read

Matthew 28:1-10 (NRSV)

After the sabbath, as the first day of the week was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. And suddenly there was a great earthquake; for an angel of the Lord, descending from heaven, came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow. For fear of him the guards shook and became like dead men. But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid; I know that you are looking for Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for he has been raised, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples, ‘He has been raised from the dead, and indeed he is going ahead of you to Galilee; there you will see him.’ This is my message for you.” So they left the tomb quickly with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. Suddenly Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” And they came to him, took hold of his feet, and worshiped him. Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.”

Reflect

Easter has come! Our Savior is risen!

It is easy to get so caught up in all of the things that surround the celebration of Easter that we forget exactly why we are celebrating. Buying new clothes, dyeing eggs, hiding and hunting eggs, or preparing a meal for your family are not bad things. The problem is that we become so wrapped up in trying to make those perfect “Norman Rockwell” moments that we get distracted—distracted from the greatest miracle in human history.

We need to be reminded of the miracle of the Resurrection. Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were wrapped up in their own sorrow. They were afraid because they’d lost their teacher and friend. They were grieving. They had forgotten what Jesus had been teaching them. Then BAM!! They encountered an angel! Then they encountered Jesus! Their grief and sorrow immediately turned into joy and excitement!

A real encounter with our risen Savior changes our lives, our hearts, and our souls! May we see his greatness and mercy as we celebrate his resurrection.

Pray

Lord of wonder, speak to us. Focus us so that we might see you more clearly. Guide us on the path of light. Amen.

Go with God.