Easter Sunday
Acts 10:34-43; Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24; Colossians 3:1-4; Matthew 28:1-15a
The opposing crowds present when Jesus entered Jerusalem (Matthew 21:8-11) have collided, and there was a false sense of both triumph and defeat. However, God was done at the cross. The great reversal for the ages arrives with very distinct tales to tell.
Everybody is stunned, if not fearful. They can’t be blamed. God has never acted in such a way before. One crowd wants to make the promise of the resurrection stay denied. At the same time, the ones who followed Jesus to the cross awake from the horrific crucifixion scene lost and in grief. Yet, life continues. For some, the corpse of Jesus needs to be dealt with. To others, the body of Christ needed to be tended to.
Both opposing crowds receive the news, “He is not here; for he has been raised, as he said.” Promised fulfilled! Wait, now what!?
In Acts, from the home of a former opposer, Peter, the former denier, testifies and bears a truthful witness to what happened in Jerusalem. In the end, we are sent to proclaim the good news. Everybody who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins! Paul tells the church in Colossus that believers should not lose sight of the things from above.
The psalmist sings the rejected has become the new cornerstone. The Lord has done it, and it is wonderful in our eyes (verses 22-23)! Rejoice and be glad, for this is the day the Lord has made (24)!
Bridging Faith 