Easter Sunday
Readings from the Revised Common Lectionary
The imagery of a celebration feast is a good one on this Easter Sunday. Verse 6 contains language of joy and abundance. What is being celebrated? Who is invited? How does this celebration echo our celebration of the Resurrection?
Read Revelation 21:1-4. What parallels do you see to this passage in Isaiah? What themes and images are most central to both? How do your heart and soul respond to the promises both contain?
Verse 9 contains language of “waiting for salvation.” Spend some time reflecting on the reality that what Isaiah and the people of Israel waited for is a present reality for us in Christ. Even in that reality, though, how do we also find ourselves waiting? How does that help us understand the journey of the Jewish people better?
(note that last week’s Psalm reading was almost identical)
The Psalm begins with a responsive call to worship in verses 1-2. What Easter Sunday worship traditions and experiences have been formative for you in your walk with Jesus?
Last week we reflected on this passage’s connection to Palm Sunday. How does it also connect to our experience of Easter Sunday? What language in this passage gives us good points for reflection on this day?
In verse 17 the Psalmist speaks to the importance of “recounting the deeds of the LORD.” How do we do that in worship? In our lives? How does it encourage us in our journey of discipleship?
Theologians often see this passage as one of the most densely-packed in Scripture, due to the number of truths and important points Paul is making. Which ones stick out most for you? Why? Which ones raise questions for you? How will you pursue more understanding for them?
Verses 3-7 are thought to be the earliest “creed” in the Christian faith, summarizing the beliefs of the followers of Jesus. Have you experienced worship in a church tradition that uses credal statements, like the Apostles’ Creed? What is helpful for us in having statements that do this kind of summary?
In verse 10 Paul speaks to his reliance on God’s grace. How have you experienced God’s grace as a sustaining and comforting presence in your life? What is helpful for you in staying “connected” to truths about God’s grace?
Compare this to the accounts of the Resurrection in the Synoptic gospels (Matthew 28, Mark 16, & Luke 24). What is similar? What is different? What does each gospel writer emphasize?
The various gospel accounts make it clear that the disciples of Jesus are slow to understand and accept what has happened on that first Easter Sunday. Some “get it” quicker, others (especially Thomas) are slow to come around. What is your story of coming to understand/accept the Resurrection of Jesus? Spend some time in prayer giving thanks to God for how he has revealed himself to you in the cross and the empty tomb.
Jesus becomes known to Mary when he speaks her name. What does it mean to you that Christ knows us and calls us by name? What does that reveal about him?
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As you finish, choose one of these four texts and let it guide you into a time of prayer.