Happy Easter!
I am sure it has been an intense week for many of us. We have journeyed with Jesus from his triumphant entry into Jerusalem last Sunday to the washing of the feet on Thursday. We
have sat anxious and tired with Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane; we have followed him to Annas, Caiphas and Pilate. We have heard the cries for his crucifixion, seen him hobble up the hill beside Simon and fallen on our knees, silent, as he gave up his spirit. We have mourned beside the tomb with Mary, Joseph of Arimathea, Nicodemus, friends, and family.
We approached the tomb in the night with the women who followed Jesus. We saw that shimmering light, sang our exsultet and remembered our long salvation history. Finally, we danced, rejoiced, and sang at the tops of our voices as light and colour
returned to our lives - Alleluia! He is risen! Alleluia!
Imagine the range of emotions the women felt that first
Easter Sunday when they approached the tomb and found it empty. Place yourself in the scene. Imagine the birds chirping, see the spices the women carry and imagine their trepidation approaching the tomb of their beloved. Can you see the empty tomb? What thoughts come to your mind? How do you feel?
The angel announces Jesus is risen and sends them to tell this good news to the disciples. They meet the Risen Lord on the way and give them the command. Do you believe the angel? Are you afraid? Imagine meeting the Risen Jesus? How do you feel seeing him?
The women are filled with fear and with joy. Joy is like the fragrance of a freshly baked loaf of bread that fills the whole house. It is
the fragrance of knowing that Jesus is alive, has overcome all of our sins and shame, is present and active in the world today, and is risen in our hearts.
Can you smell this fragrance in your life this morning?
