Reformation Lutheran 1997 Lenten Devotional - Number 47

March 30, 1997. Today's Bible verse is John 20: 1-18

Easter
"Alleluia!"

Christians around the world gather this day to sing alleluias to God who raised Jesus from the dead. Let the music lift our hearts! Breathe deeply the fragrance of the lilies! Take in the colors and the crowds! Rejoice! He is risen! Death no longer has dominion!

They came to the garden while it was still dark. They were expecting the debris of death. They came with heavy hearts, and we would have also. We know very well that life is a deathward drift. We see the world broken and in bondage. We are unable to free ourselves from a destructive human condition. We see evidence all around--emptiness of the soul, poverty in the city, suspicion between races, diseases lying in wait, estrangement in the family. We rebel against God. In darkness and death we remain.

This is the Good News of Easter. God did not leave us in the darkness of this world. The Son of God is our eternal light and life. This One no darkness could overcome. The resurrection confirms him as the Bread of Life that satisfies our deepest hungers. He truly is the Good Shepherd who cares for the sheep of his fold.

Like Christmas the message of Easter is lost on some people. The Good News is obscured, perverted or diluted with holiday excesses. Some remain oblivious to the desperation of their lives.

Let us be clear about our praise and proclamation. God sent his Son that all who believe in him might have eternal life. He came not to condemn but to save. For us he endured the cross. God raised him to be our life and light. Here is peace with God and hope for all.

Alleluia! He is risen! Alleluia!

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