After that day, everything was different. The first disciples witnessed a dead man walking. Their lives would be forever changed, defined by “life before Easter” and life “life after Easter.” On numerous occasions, Jesus showed up in resurrected form before he ascended. In the season of Easter we will examine six “after Easter” encounters with Jesus. What did he say and do? In what practical ways does resurrection change my daily life? Nothing will ever be the same.
Invocation
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Invitation
Risen Christ, by your death and resurrection you brought dawn to darkness. You have made a new way, from death to life, cross to crown, grave to glory. We are frail creatures in a world of change and decay. Rule over us in your resurrection power. Subdue sin and evil, disease and destruction. We have nothing apart from you, for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever, Amen.
Confession
O Lord, I live a world of dead ends. There is always an end. An end to my energy. My time. My love. My patience. My money. My very life. I am trapped by limits. I am burdened by my frail, finite limits. I have exhausted all other options. Nothing else satisfies. You burst forth from the grave to give me life beyond the horizon. You are my singular hope, my only prayer. Risen Savior, have mercy on my dead ends.
Word
I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. (Gal. 2:20)
Meditation
There are things that happen in life that are so profound that you can never be the same. Everything changes. How is your life different because of the resurrection? I want you to reflect on this question. To help you, let me share some responses I got from people recently.
How is your life different because of the resurrection?
“My life has purpose.” – Connor
“The impossible is possible.” – Eve
“No enemy is too great for God. So I don’t have to be afraid.” – John
“The Christian life isn’t boring. Every day is a mission from God. Every morning is a divine assignment.” – Amanda
“Right now Jesus is the King. I am more confident because he is interceding for me, working for me, defending and sending me.” – Phil
If the last year has done anything for you, let it wake you up. No more boring Easters! No more lazy Christianity. No more fearful living! Everything has changed! How is your life different because of the resurrection?
There is before and there is after. Now is the time to start living in “the after.” Christ is risen! He is risen indeed, Alleluia!
Benediction
The God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen. (I Pet. 5:10-11)