Early on Sunday morning, faithful women went to Jesus’ grave to finish caring for his lifeless body. Instead, they found the grave open and were greeted by an angel who said, Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen; he is not here. See the place where they laid him (Mark 16:6).
This changes everything! In the sacrifice of Jesus, the world was redeemed. Sin is forgiven. Death is defeated by the death and resurrection of Jesus. Life is freely given to all who receive him. Alleluia!
In these days of isolation, we celebrate the fact that, through Jesus, we are no longer separated from God. Nothing can hold Jesus back from the people that he loves. Not death, not fear, not human schemes, not isolation or social distancing or pandemics. Jesus is risen. He died for you. He rose for you. He lives for you. And he is with you.
May the risen Lord bless and keep you, fill you with life and love and hope in his name.
Happy Easter!
Steven P. Mueller, S.T.M., Ph.D.
Chief Mission Officer
Professor of Theology & Dean of Christ College