I. Theme – Easter celebrates the reality of Jesus’ resurrection in all its many aspects. Hope, Transformation, Evangelism and a new life.
John’s Gospel shows the ability of the risen Christ to bring transformation and hope into the most difficult situations of human pain and grief is powerfully and movingly highlighted. With this encounter, John ‘leads the reader from the empty tomb to that which is the real meaning of the resurrection – the creation of a new relationship between Jesus and those who believe in him.’
The Acts reading emphasizes the broader nature of the resurrection spreads the message of Christ to all and in particular the Gentiles.
The Psalms and Colossians speak to the type of life we receive in Christ.
1. In death to sin, self, and the world (v.3a; cf. 2:20; Rom. 6:6-11)
2. In spiritual resurrection to newness of life (v.1a; cf. 2:12-13; Rom. 6:6, 11)
3. In new, spiritual life, aliveness to God (vv. 3b, 4a; cf. Rom. 6:11, 13)
4. In resurrection glory (v.4b; cf. Rom. 8:17-18; 2 Thess. 1:10)
“Noli Me Tangere” (Touch Me Not) – Correggio (1534)
The lectionary readings are here or individually:
Old Testament – Jeremiah 31:1-6
Psalm – Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 Page 760, BCP
Epistle –Colossians 3:1-4
Epistle- Acts 10:34-43
Gospel John 20:1-18
Gospel – Matthew 28:1-10
