Theme of the Day: We Can See Clearly
A recent survey asked Americans which of the five senses they would least like to lose. 77% chose sight. Navigating life blind poses a plethora of challenges that the sighted do not face. This is why Scripture often uses the concept of blindness as a metaphor for how hard it is to navigate life without a correct understanding of Christ. Spiritual blindness can take many different forms. In some cases, it is hostile opposition to the message of Jesus. In others, spiritual blindness might be demonstrated in confusion about Jesus’ true identity. In still others, spiritual blindness might be the inability to understand our spiritual condition.
No matter the form spiritual blindness takes, Easter has the power to replace it with sight. Easter allows us to see where we sinners stand with a holy God. It enables us to see the path through life that is worth pursuing (as opposed to those that lead to a dead end). Spiritual sight gives us the ability to see who holds our future in his hands and who is worth our eternal worship. Because Jesus lives, we can see things clearly.
John 21:1-14
Acts 9:1-22
Revelation 5:11-14
Psalm 30A
534 – Hail, O Once-Despised Jesus
459 – Christ the Lord Is Risen Again
675 – At the Lamb’s High Feast We Sing
460 – Alleluia, Alleluia! Hearts to Heaven
Prayer of the Day: O God, by the humiliation of your Son, you lifted up this fallen world from the despair of death. By his resurrection to life, grant your faithful people gladness of heart and the hope of eternal joys; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Gospel Acclamation: Alleluia. Christ Jesus has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. Alleluia.