“The angel said to the women, ‘Don’t be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said’” (Matt. 28:5-6)
Lord Jesus, we add our voices to the angel’s declaration and the disciples celebration. You have risen, indeed, just as you said you would. You died for our salvation and have risen for our justification. The grave has been robbed of its victory, and your grace now flows to us freely. “Beloved” is our eternal name and “In Christ” is our permanent address. Hallelujah, and thank you.
Gathering as your church to worship you on Easter is always a highlight of our year, Lord Jesus, but this year’s celebration could not have come at a better time. Our heart-pain remains fresh, and grieving-well takes time. The tragedy at Covenant School greatly impacted us, dear friends, fellow churches, our city and well beyond.
But even as our tears still come easy… our gratitude is swelling, our fears are melting, and our hope is growing. For we see your hand and heart powerfully at work all around us. Sometimes it’s takes tragedy to slow us down. Sometimes it takes suffering to open us up. Sometimes it takes temporal loss to bring eternal gain.
Thank you for the privilege of bearing each other’s burdens, holding each other’s hearts, and entering each other’s pain. Thank you for this fresh stirring we feel to love and trust you… to be your church, not just go to church… to care for our neighbors and welcome others.
Jesus, is this the beginning of a fresh work of your Spirit… a much longed for and needed renewal in our hearts, churches, and city? We pray so. We hope so.
No one grieved the tragedy at Covenant School more than you; and no one has done more to guarantee the Day of no more harm and harming, anywhere, anytime, by anyone. Until Day, Jesus, continue to heal our hearts and free us to live and love to your glory. So Very Amen, we pray in your glorious and grace-full name.