Scripture Reading
Matthew 28:5-7
But the angel said to the women, 'Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him. See, I have told you.'
Reflection
Death could not hold him. The stone is rolled away, the tomb is empty, and the angel's first words are 'Do not be afraid.' Easter is the great reversal of every fear, every failure, every grave that seems final. The resurrection is not merely a past event but a present reality — Christ is alive and going before you today. Whatever tomb you have been locked inside, hear the angel's word: he has risen, and so can you.
Prayer for Today
Lord Jesus, I am thankful for Your promises in the Gospel that we will not pray in vain. You said that if even an unjust judge will give in to the pleading widow if she keeps asking Him that justice be done, then should we not expect more from God, who loves us? In another place, You told us to keep asking, seeking and knocking. You give me a reason not to lose heart. I know that Your time is not my time, and Your thoughts are not my thoughts, and therefore I will not be too demanding and impatient. I thank You for Your reassurance that You hear me. Please help me in my present necessity. Amen.
Amen.