Easter Sunday 2025 - Only One Easter Story

"He is Risen!" "He is Risen indeed!"
 This is the call and response we delight in on Easter Sunday, reminding us of the wondrous promise-come-true of God's Word. But phew! -there's a lot to get through in Holy Week before we say those heart-lifting words. Jesus enters Jerusalem to shouts of joy- then He gathers with His closest friends to institute His holy meal of thanksgiving and remembrance; this first meal of service and love ends in betrayal. Jesus suffers humiliation and pain as He is subjected to the worst of human nature on Good Friday, then laid in a tomb as the few friends He has left mourn. We endure a day of deep darkness, stillness and grief- a space between what was and what is to come. Then there is Life! Joy! Unspeakable wonder as Mary sees Jesus face to face in the garden. Death has been defeated, and our old sinful nature passes away in the light of our Risen Saviour.
 
 Phew! Wow! And so many of us may also be saying "Phew! It's a lot." This sinful world isn't getting any easier to navigate. Many of us are standing in the space between what was and what is to come. Like Jesus' friends and followers, we may be feeling confused about what's happening, deeply ashamed, or full of grief as we recall our sinful actions. How have you come to the foot of the Cross this Easter? Whatever your journey along the path of life, Easter gives you the chance to pause and reflect. As you pause, take time with Jesus to be joyful, enjoy fellowship and be hospitable. Perhaps you will find the courage to truthfully reflect on your sinful actions and words. Then, as Easter dawns- allow your heart to be seized again by the Holy Spirit! As when you were baptised, death has been defeated- and yes- "He is Risen!" "Jesus is Risen indeed!" Amen, and God bless you this Easter.

Sermon written for LCA and read by Bridgitte Willkinson.