THOUGHTS FOR THIS WEEK

Readings

Acts 10:34-43: Peter preaches that God shows no favouritism, but that anyone who believes in Jesus, who did good and healed those oppressed by the devil, was crucified, and was raised, receives life and forgiveness.

Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24: A song celebrating God’s mercy and strength, and celebrating the restoration of God after struggle – foreshadowing “the stone that the builders rejected” who “became the cornerstone”.

1 Corinthians 15:19-26: Christ is the one who died and came back to life in order to bring all people to life. Finally, death itself is destroyed.

John 20:1-18: Mary finds the empty tomb and reports it to the disciples. Peter and John investigate and witness the empty tomb, but Mary remains and becomes the first to meet, and witness to, the Risen Christ.

Rev Tania writes:

EASTER- Christ is risen—He is risen indeed!

This Easter, as we reflect on the first resurrection morning, we remember how the women came to the tomb expecting death. Their world had been shattered by violence, injustice, and profound grief. Yet, in the place of despair, they encountered something unimaginable—an empty tomb, a message of hope, and the possibility of rescue and restoration.

In Acts 10:34-43, Peter proclaims the transformative power of Jesus’ resurrection, emphasising that God shows no partiality and that the good news of peace through Jesus Christ is for all people. This message invites us to embrace a new vision of the world—a world where barriers are broken, justice prevails, and all are welcomed into the fullness of life. The resurrection is a call to see things differently, to live in the light of God’s impartial love, and to work for a world renewed by grace.

John 20:1-18 recounts the profound moment when Mary Magdalene encounters the risen Christ. Her grief turns to joy as she realises that Jesus has triumphed over death. This encounter is a powerful testament to new life and new hope. The resurrection is not a return to what was but a bold step forward into what is new—a life transformed by the creative power of God. Mary’s testimony challenges us to believe in the possibility of renewal and to proclaim the good news of a new world being born.

Rev Tania