Christ Is Risen!
Jaylene O’Keefe of Independence, MO USA
…the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid; I know that you are looking for Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for he has been raised, as he said.” -Matthew 28:5-6
In the dark and difficult days of Lent, we talk a lot about hope-bold hope, stubborn hope. The muddy mess of winter’s end can’t hide the promise of spring’s return.
And here it comes! Look at the gardens. Leaves unfurl, welcoming the sun. Birds and bugs tune up their voices. Color returns to every branch and bud. As Parker Palmer wrote: “Spring teaches me to look more carefully for the green stems of possibilities” (Enter Spring).
As Christians our Easter rejoicing centers on the hope we know, the hope we share, the peace and presence of Jesus in our lives. We are Easter people, not just once a year, but every day-praying and serving, hoping and loving, living the promise of the Resurrection. Do you see through Christ whom we are becoming? Do you see our green stems of possibilities?
Here is God’s testing of true Easter people,
spirited people with service to give,
taking to heart the compassion of Jesus,
feeling how others must struggle to live;
we are a part of God’s upside-down kingdom,
we know the heart of the gospel’s demand,
taking our part with the leftover people,
widening the space of the lines in the sand.
-“Leftover People in Leftover Places,” Shirley Erena Murray,
\xc2\xa9 2007 The Hymn Society (admin. Hope Publishing Company)
Community of Christ Sings 275
Prayer Phrase
Are we moving toward Jesus, the peaceful One?
Spiritual Practice
Moving Toward the Peaceful One
As Jesus was nearing the final days of his life, he wept over the city and proclaimed, “If you, even you, had only recognized on this day the things that make for peace” (Luke 19:41-42).What are the things that make for peace in our lives, communities, and around the world? During the Lenten season, spend time in silent refection or journaling each day to notice: Am I moving toward Jesus, the peaceful One? Pay attention to your attitudes, actions, and relationships this day. When did you most embody the peaceful One in your daily living? When were your thoughts or actions contrary to the peace of Jesus Christ? How might Jesus, the peaceful One, who is always near to you, be inviting you to draw nearer to him through your daily living?
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.
