Theme of the Day: Death Has Lost Its Sting
Death can sting in many ways. First, death can sting by casting a shadow over every moment of life. No matter what earthly joy you are experiencing, death guarantees it won’t last. Second, death can sting by separating loves. There are no phone calls or hugs from the dead. Third, death can sting by instilling fear of what follows. Deep down, every human being senses that after death there is some sort of reckoning. . . a judgement. Yes, death can sting in many ways.
Note that word can. Because Jesus lives, death has lost its sting for those who put their faith in the living Lord. Because Christ lives, we have all the proof we need that God accepted Jesus’ death as the complete and final payment for all our sin. There is no condemnation for those who are in Christ. More, Christ’s resurrection is the assurance that our Christian loved ones are not lost. We will see them again in the resurrection to incomprehensible and unending joy.
Death remains unnatural. But Christ has defeated death. So, while death may still cause tears, death does not cause dread. Because Jesus lives, death has lost its sting.
Luke 24:1-12
Isaiah 25:6-9
1 Corinthians 15:51-57
Psalm 16A
438 – Jesus Christ Is Risen Today
471 – Now All the Vault of Heaven Resounds
439 – Christ Jesus Lay in Death’s Strong Bands
441 – I Know That My Redeemer Lives
442 – Christ the Lord Is Risen Today; Alleluia
461 – He Is Arisen! Glorious Word
Prayer of the Day: Almighty God, by the glorious resurrection of your Son, Jesus Christ, you conquered death and opened the gate to eternal life. Grant that we, who have been raised with him through Baptism, may walk in newness of life and ever rejoice in the hope of sharing his glory; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be dominion and praise now and forever.
Gospel Acclamation: Alleluia. This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Alleluia.