Mark 16:1-8 “And he said to them, “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. But go, tell his disciples and Peter that he is going before you to Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.” (Mark 16:6–7)

Don’t be alarmed. Those words show up often in the Gospels. Here, at the sight of the empty tomb, the words are repeated. The disciples of Jesus are not to be afraid. Jesus was crucified for them. Jesus has risen for them as well. The angel says “just as He told you”. The Words and Promises of God happens just as He says. This is outstanding news for us – think of all the Words you have read this Lent during these devotions. They are happening for you just as He said. Fears? You don’t need to fear. Christ has been crucified. Christ has risen. He is risen indeed. Alleluia. You are baptized into all of this. You have no need to fear the world around you – the situations that are ongoing in this valley of sorrow. Our Lord has washed you clean and made you His own. He has earned the forgiveness of sins. That means death, the wages of sin – what sin earns – it is gone as far from you as your sins are. Sin, which brings the devils evil mastery is gone, and with it the devils tyranny over you. And since you have no sins left and death has no claim on you and the devil can’t rule you – you have eternal salvation. The risen Lord Jesus is proof of this. He who took on the sins of the world lives. Death could not have Him. The devil could not rule Him. Eternal life is His as He comes out Easter morn to show Himself to the disciples and prepare His Church for her task of bringing this news to the world. Your baptism puts you right there. No more sin. No more death. No more devil. No more damnation. Your sins are forgiven. Your death is used to bring you eternal life. Your master loves you so much He did this all for you. Your eternal salvation is safe and secure by the Word and promise of the risen Lord, into whom you are baptized.

Lord Jesus Christ, You have baptized us to be your own. Help us out of all fears and to trust what You have told us in Your Word. Amen.

The Resurrection of Our Lord: Easter Sunday

Devotions from Steadfast LutheransBy Rev. Paul J CainMar 31, 2024