Page 58 - Lenten Devotional 2023

Sunday, April 9 - Easter Sunday

Scripture: Matthw 28:5-9a
But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid; I know that you are looking for Jesus who

was crucified. He is not here; for he has been raised, as he said. Come, see the place where he
lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples, ‘He has been raised from the dead, and indeed he is
going ahead of you to Galilee; there you will see him.’ This is my message for you.” So they left

the tomb quickly with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. Suddenly Jesus met them
and said, “Greetings!”

Reflection
We have heard many wonderful stories of welcome over these weeks of Lent. But today,
Easter Sunday, we all hear the same one. We all share the same one. Because we are

welcomed by the same Lord Jesus Christ: God made flesh for our sake. God crucified on
a cross for our sake. God raised from the dead for our sake.

“Jesus was born as a fully flesh-and-blood human. A real person whose blood poured
out. He’s a real savior whose outstretched hand pulls us to himself, whose shoulders

carry our burdens, and whose arms are unceasingly available for a welcoming, loving
embrace.” (Margaret Pope, Daily Grace)

So, today, hear it once again. And rest in this truth: In Christ Jesus, God welcomes you,
arms wide open.
~Pastor Erin Heidelberger