But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him. See, I have told you.”
Matthew 28:5–7, ESV
He is Risen! This is the Easter promise that we celebrate as brothers and sisters in Christ. The reality is that our Lord, who was dead, is now alive and has risen. We don’t worship a dead god, nor do we worship a feeling that is inside of us, but our Lord Jesus Christ lives and reigns. There is no greater promise and no greater truth than this. Yet, we see how often it is missed. The words “Go and tell!” are forgotten by many either because of neglect or disbelief. We can’t assume that everyone knows the story. There are many who have heard it in part and don’t believe it because they don’t see the hope of this promise lived out in the lives of the church. We are the church, as we walk out into the world as living temples to the one, true God. Our Lord has promised to reside within those who belong to Him. Our Lord can be visible through our lives in how we live and speak out the promise. Some see the church buildings as the Church, but that is the place where we gather and are energized for our mission in the world. Our Lord desires for us to gather regularly to hear the Word and be filled continuously reminded of the Gospel promise. The women, who first were told this Gospel promise that our Lord has risen, were not believed at first, but we know that this did not last long as the truth quickly spread. Over the centuries, many have given their lives for this truth, but it spreads only farther and wider. It cannot be contained. It is the Gospel promise our Lord Jesus Christ is risen and has brought salvation to all humanity, for all who believe shall be saved! He IS Risen! He IS Risen, Indeed! Alleluia!
Let us pray. I thank you, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, your dear Son, that you have kept me this night from all harm and danger, and I ask you to protect me this day also from sin and every evil, that in all I do today, I may please you. For into your hands, I commend myself, my body and soul, and all that is mine. Let your holy angel watch over me, that the wicked foe have no power over me. Amen.