Easter Sunday, the Day of Resurrection- John 20:1-10

The Paschal Feast, the Feast of the Resurrection, or Easter, is the culmination of the biblical message and of the church calendar. Jesus of Nazareth, who accepted terrible physical and spiritual suffering to save us from sin, has risen from the dead; He offers us new life, in this world and the next. Easter is the great dividing point in human history. Among other things, Christ's Resurrection is the seal of divine approval upon the earthly life, ministry, and death of Jesus. In addition, it is the key event that transforms a band of disheartened and defeated disciples into faithful witnesses and ministers of the Good News. The whole New Testament is written from the standpoint of faith in the risen Lord Jesus Christ.

In the traditional Books of Common Prayer, the first Easter Gospel is from St. John 20. 1-10. It proclaims the importance of faith. At first, the women at the empty tomb and the apostles who hear the women's report react with fear and curiosity. When the apostles hear the news from the women, Simon Peter and the other disciple (traditionally identified as John) run to see for themselves. Peter goes in first to see the grave clothes. Then that other disciple enters, "and he saw and believed" (St. John 20:8). Accepting that the empty tomb is a real and important event, but this is only a first step. There must also be a second step.  The reality of the empty tomb calls each person to a personal response: faith in the living Jesus Christ! 

So on this Easter, let each of us accept with faith what the empty tomb tells us about Jesus. He is unique. He is not merely someone who has recovered from physical death. He has experienced Resurrection; that is, He has conquered death. He has overcome the forces of evil, destruction, and death for all time, for all who truly believe in Him. He is the Word of God incarnate, God the Son. By overcoming death, He has (in the words of the collect) "opened unto us the gate of everlasting life." Christ lives, and because He lives, we also may truly live in union with Him. Alleluia. The Lord is risen indeed; O come, let us adore him. Alleluia.

Easter Even or Holy Saturday- 1 Peter 3:17-22

Traditional Books of Common Prayer call this Saturday of Holy Week "Easter Even", and following the ancient Church, they keep the day very low key. There is no celebration of the Eucharist during this day (if there is an Easter Vigil Eucharist, it is technically for Easter Day and the consecration should be after nightfall or even after midnight). There are, of course, readings for Morning and Evening Prayer, and there are propers for the Ante-Communion or Liturgy of the Word. This day recalls the time Jesus' body rested in the tomb.

The Epistle from First Peter 3: 17-22 has two main themes: 1) the importance of Christ's death for our salvation, and 2) a relationship between Christ's death and Christian Baptism. This is a good time for us absorb the reality of Christ's death and to give thanks quietly for His atoning work. It is also appropriate to contemplate the ways that Christian Baptism unites us to Christ, His Death, and His Resurrection.

Good Friday- Isaiah 53, John 19

 Good Friday always seems like a time to read, hear, and meditate upon the Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ and to pray quietly and deeply. Let us briefly emphasize two of today's readings. Isaiah 53 is one of several passages which speaks of the Suffering Servant of God. This Messianic figure bears horrible sufferings innocently for the redemption of God's people. In the end, He also overcomes suffering and is honored by the Lord God. Jesus Himself alludes to such prophecies and applies them to Himself and  His work (Luke 24:26-27). Later, the Apostles (I Peter 2:22-25), Evangelists (Matthew 27: 12,29; John 12:38), and Christians down through the centuries have seen these prophecies fulfilled in Jesus Christ.

We see Isaiah's prophecy made personal and concrete in the Passion account from John 19. Jesus is holy and innocent. He deserves all honor, respect, and love. Yet, He humbly and quietly accepts rejection, insults, physical abuse, torture, and an excruciating and slow death to deliver people from sin, death, and the devil. He suffers for our transgressions. He lays down His life for His sheep. Jesus restores balance to a fallen creation. He overcomes the imbalance and disorder caused by sin. He does something that we humans could never do for ourselves. He atones for our sin; He graciously reconciles sinners with divine righteousness. Only through Christ's suffering and His perfect offering on the cross does divine goodness decidedly triumph. Because of His redeeming work, it is "Good Friday" after all. Thanks be to God!

Thursday before Easter, commonly called Maundy Thursday- I Corinthians 11:23ff

The Thursday in Holy Week has a rich history and several liturgical associations. These associations include preparing for baptism or confirmation, the blessing of holy oils, the washing of feet, and the stripping of altars. However, the chief theme of the day is the commemoration of the institution of the Lord's Supper, Holy Communion, or Eucharist. 

The Prayer Book epistle for this day is from I Corinthians 11:23ff and contains St. Paul's version of the words of institution of the Lord's Supper. These simple words are at the heart of Christian worship. Theologians have often discussed and disputed the exact meaning of the words. But although sacramental theology is important, the significance of this holy meal goes beyond our explanations. In other words, obedience and faith are more important than human theories.

Several simple affirmations seem clear. First, Jesus Himself began and commanded His disciples to continue this sacred meal. Secondly, He related it to His self-sacrifice that was about to take place for human salvation. Thirdly, this commemoration of His death also points to His continuing presence as a living Lord and anticipates that He will come again in glory. 

So, as followers of Christ, the main issues are not abstract theories; the most important thing is an attitude of humble faith. The Eucharist is about what Christ has done and is doing for our salvation. Through the blessed bread and wine, our Lord offers us His continuing presence. He offers us His grace to continue the journey in faith.  And our response to His grace should be thanksgiving.

Wednesday before Easter- Luke 22

This Wednesday in Holy Week has sometimes been called "Spy Wednesday" because tradition has remembered this day as the time when Judas Iscariot agreed with the chief priests to betray Jesus (Luke 22:2-6, 47-48; Matthew 26:1-5,14-25). A variety of human characters opposed Jesus- the Jewish authorities in Jerusalem, the Roman rulers, the fickle crowds, and Judas the traitor. Even the other close disciples made the situation worse. They did not really listen to or understand Jesus, and Simon Peter, the spokesman for the Twelve, would lose courage and faith, and he would publicly deny Jesus.

This sad state of affairs reflects the fallen human predicament. All are sinners who contribute to Christ's suffering and death. Yet, He still loves us, dies for us, and offers us His love, grace, and forgiveness. The key is our response to Christ. Judas will later be sorrowful, but he doesn't have faith in Jesus' mercy and forgiveness. Peter and the others will truly repent and trust in Christ's saving grace. As we meditate on the suffering and death of Jesus, may we also trust in the love, grace, and pardon that He offers each one of us!

Holy Week Devotions- Matthew, Mark, Luke, John

Since 1549, Anglican calendars and liturgies have provided Scripture readings and prayers for observing Holy Week, the week between Palm Sunday and Easter morning. Although every congregation is not able to offer public worship every day, all Books of Common Prayer have preserved many ancient catholic traditions and made them available for individual as well as corporate devotion.  Our Prayer Book heritage provides basic structures for our observances. There are the Church calendar and lectionaries, Morning and Evening Prayer, the Litany, the Lord's Supper, and family prayers. There are many readings and prayers from which to choose, and the Gospel accounts of Christ's Passion (Matthew 26-27, Mark 14-15, Luke 22-23, John 12-19) always remain central. Following this great worship heritage reduces the likelihood of weird, extravagant, or inappropriate observances. It also provides great spiritual nourishment as we contemplate Christ's great work to redeem our souls!

Palm Sunday- Matthew 21; Matthew 26 & 27

 The last Sunday in Lent, or as the traditional Books of Common Prayer say, "The Sunday Next Before Easter," is commonly called Palm Sunday. This title is common even among some Christian groups that do not observe most of the Christian calendar. The triumphal entry of Christ into Jerusalem at the beginning of the first Holy Week has been observed publicly since the early fourth century in Palestine. There is a certain joy in the event, but there has always been a bit of irony about the observance and the events it recalls.

Certainly, the story of Christ's triumphal entrance (Matthew 21:1-11 and parallels) into Jerusalem should be remembered. The event was rich in symbolism. He came on a donkey as a peaceful king from the ancient East would come to be enthroned. And the children and humble people present that day welcomed and praised Him. He deserved the praise and recognition. He was the true king of God's people, the Messianic deliverer. Unfortunately, the crowds did not really understand Him. They did not accept His spiritual type of leadership. They were looking for a political deliverer, and when the crowds were disappointed, they would quickly turn on Jesus and accept His crucifixion. Thus, the Palm Gospel for the day naturally leads us to the Passion Gospel (Matthew 26 & 27), which is central for this day. 

In fact, the Passion accounts are at the heart of all our readings during this week. The events that we commemorate this week are key to the entire Christian message. The Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Christ are the greatest acts of God for our salvation. Without them, Jesus' birth and ministry lose significance. Without them, we have no hope of redemption from our sins, no hope of eternal life. A faithful response to the events of Holy Week and Easter is at the heart of what it means to be Christian. Therefore, let us take time all this week to listen, read, and meditate on these painful but mighty acts of God.

The Annunciation- 25 March- Luke 1:26-38

 The feast of the Annunciation is often neglected. Such neglect occurs because it is a weekday, because it falls during Lent, and perhaps also because the event receives attention during Advent. The 25th of March was first mentioned as a possible date for the Annunciation in the third century, and its observance developed and spread over several centuries. In medieval England it was known as "Lady Day," and until the mid-eighteenth century in England, it was the beginning of the New Year. 

Of course, the basis for the observance of the Annunciation is in St. Luke 1:26, "And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, to a virgin esposed to a man whose name was Joseph , of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary." The rest of the story should be familiar. Mary was humble and obedient to God, and although she was fearful and amazed, she accepted that she was to bear the one who was both Messiah and Son of God. The blessed Virgin is certainly a great example of holiness and faith. 

The the traditional collect of the day admirably ties the significance of the Annunciation to the other events of redemption: We beseech thee, O Lord, pour thy grace into our hearts; that, as we have known the incarnation of thy Son Jesus Christ by the message of an angel, so by his cross and passion we may be brought into the glory of his resurrection; through the same Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

This Annunciation collect brings together multiple aspects of the message of Christ's Gospel. The One announced to the Virgin is the same One who suffered, died, and rose again to save us. Through divine grace, may we believe this Gospel and apply it to our lives in faith, hope, and charity. Thanks and praise be to God!

St. Joseph- Luke 2:41-52

 On some calendars, March 19 is the feast of St. Joseph. Two Gospel passages are associated with this day: Matthew 1:18-25 and Luke 2:41-52. Both highlight the often-neglected role of St. Joseph in the Incarnation. Of course, Jesus Himself is the focus of the Gospels, and the Virgin Mary is highly favored. Yet, Joseph must not be forgotten. He is a great example of a godly and honorable man. 

As Matthew 1 shows, in his initial response to Mary's unique pregnancy, Joseph is a merciful traditionalist. He wants to follow the rules in a kind way. But Joseph is also open to change for good reason. He hears and heeds the divine call, and in response to God's message, he accepts his vocation with courage and commitment. He is supportive of Mary. He cares for the blessed spouse and for the holy child entrusted to his care.  As Luke 2 indicates, after the birth of Jesus, Joseph leads the family into Egyptian exile during Herod's lifetime. Later, he is involved in the religious life of the holy family as shown in the pilgrimage at Passover when Jesus is twelve. Joseph probably also oversees young Jesus' basic education in the Scriptures and probably passes on his practical carpentry skills.

In these and many unknown ways, Joseph fulfilled his sacred vocation as a human father. For those who are human fathers, Joseph is a great example in that role. For all Christians, he is an example of love, religious duty, and self-sacrifice. May his example encourage us all in our devotion to and service to Christ!

Mid-Lent

 The Thursday after the Third Sunday in Lent is roughly halfway through the season of preparation leading up to Good Friday and Easter. This fact makes it an appropriate time to pause and evaluate our discipline during the first three weeks of Lent. Have our goals been both holy and practical? Has our external practice been suitable for the season and our personal needs? Have our attitudes been sincere and devoted? Do we need to modify our goals and disciplines for the last three weeks of Lent? Do we need to increase our efforts or pray for better attitudes? Whatever our personal answers, let us pray for divine grace to be fervent in living faith and pious devotion! Let us continue to walk with Christ toward the cross and resurrection!

Lent 1- Matthew 4:1-11

 The Gospel this Sunday is the familiar story of Christ’s great fast and temptation from St. Mathew 4:1-11. After Jesus’ Baptism, He withdrew to the wilderness for a period of devotion. At the close of His days of prayer and fasting, the Tempter sought to catch him in a moment of weakness. Satan used appealing lures, and even though the Tempter’s aims were contrary to Scripture, he tried to confuse matters by quoting Scripture.

Of course, Jesus of Nazareth rejected the three great temptations of the devil. He knew that it was wrong to serve Satan for any reason. Jesus chose to live on the earth in the ways His heavenly Father wished. He would not turn away from those principles despite attacks, misunderstandings, and objections. He would remain steadfast even when it meant rejection by the crowds and an agonizing death on the Cross.

In certain respects, the Temptations of Christ were unique. No one else has ever been so innocent. No one else has ever had to make such important spiritual choices. No one else has ever resisted temptation so completely.

Yet, although Christ's person is unique, in some other ways, His temptations were similar to those faced by other human beings. So His basic temptations apply to all of us. These temptations are rooted in three basic needs in human life. All of us need to care for our bodies, and this leads us to seek some degree of physical or material comfort. All human beings are made for interaction with others. So, there is a natural desire for approval from at least some other people. All of us humans need some control over our surroundings, and so we desire some power over people and things.

The problem is that the Tempter, the Evil One, uses all these natural needs and desires to draw us away from God and His intentions for human life. Even Jesus, in His human nature, was tempted, but we are fallen descendants of Adam and Eve. And we do not have the purity and spiritual strength of Christ. We are still sinners.

Thus, we must be vigilant, and we need more moral and spiritual discipline. We must continue to struggle to remain loyal to divine principles in all areas of life.  Above all, we need to look to the grace and assistance of Jesus Christ each day.

The First Day of Lent or Ash Wednesday- Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21

 Scripture, in general and our readings today in particular, points to the importance of our attitudes in religious matters. The key to observing Ash Wednesday and the Lenten season is found in Scripture, especially in today's Gospel reading from St. Matthew 6. This reading makes it clear that a disciple's attitude in fasting is very important. Our Lord assumes that His followers will fast, but He warns against being hypocritical and ostentatious. 

External acts of devotion can be useful. Increasing our prayer time or Bible study is good. Giving up or decreasing some food, drink, entertainment, or purchases can be good reminders and expressions of self-discipline. Giving more money or time to charity is valuable. These and other practices can be expressions of faith and renewal. 

However, such externals are not the most important thing about Lent; the most important aspects of Lent are remembering what God has done through Jesus Christ and having a humble, faithful attitude. In all we think, say, and do, we are called to repent, turn to Christ, and respond to Him in living faith. So, during Lent, let us focus on devotion to God and on greater appreciation of Christ’s journey toward the Cross.

Epiphany II- Mark 1:1-11

 For some reason, the Sarum rite and historic English Books of Common Prayer omitted the Baptism of our Lord from the communion lectionary. The 1928 American BCP reintroduced this ancient Epiphany theme and inserted it for the Second Sunday after the Epiphany (Mark 1:1-11).  Jesus came to be baptized by John in order to fulfill all righteousness. He was personally sinless, but our incarnate Lord identified with the human need for spiritual cleansing. In His human nature, He also received a special outpouring of the Holy Spirit as He began His public ministry. Finally, the heavenly voice proclaimed Jesus to be the Son of God. Christ's Baptism manifests the Holy Trinity. 

This event in Jesus' life is a unique manifestation or epiphany of the divine glory in Christ. It reveals who He is,  and it anticipates His whole public ministry and work for human salvation. He is the Son of God who brings redemption to sinful humanity.

Epiphany I- Luke 2:52

 One of the liturgical/lectionary idiosyncrasies of traditional Anglicanism is evident on the First Sunday after Epiphany. On this Sunday, many calendars and lectionaries, ancient and modern, commemorate the manifestation of Christ at His Baptism. However, Books of Common Prayer from 1549 through 1928 and 1962 focus on the visit of the Holy Family, including twelve-year-old Jesus, to the Temple. The 1928 American BCP provides for the Baptism on Epiphany II, and the 1962 Canadian BCP provides for the Baptism with optional propers to be used on Epiphany or later.

The epiphany or manifestation of the youthful Jesus in St. Luke 2:41-52 shows forth both His true humanity and His divine Sonship. The reality of His human development is summarized in Luke 2:52, "And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man."

Throughout His life on earth, our Lord Jesus Christ was both unique and ordinary. He sensed His unique relationship with God the heavenly Father, and He knew that He was called to live as a real but perfect human being. Unlike fallen humans, He always put the Father first. He grew and developed without sin. Although we are sinners who repeatedly fall short of Christ's perfection, His example should elicit our humble and faithful response. As Christians, we affirm the unique manifestation of God in Christ while we also seek the grace to follow Him and grow in wisdom and holiness. 

Epiphany- 6 January- Matthew 2

 Epiphany on January 6 is probably the oldest Christian feast besides Easter and Pentecost. In the early Greek-speaking Church, the day was about several of Christ's manifestations- His birth, His Baptism, and the beginning of His public ministry. Later, especially in the Latin churches, the day of Epiphany itself became associated with the coming of the Magi. In modern times, although Epiphany remains on church calendars, it is often neglected. For many Christians, even many Anglicans, it is anticipated, postponed, or ignored. In many cases, all that remains of the traditional observance may be wise men in a pre-Christmas children's December pageant, a carol, or a reading from Matthew 2 in a service of lessons.

However, Epiphany deserves our attention because it embodies significant Christian themes. The Wise Men or Magi represent the coming of the Gentiles or nations to Christ. Their natural human search for wisdom led them to respond to God's sign in nature and follow the star. Yet, before they could complete their journey, they also needed the guidance of Holy Scripture. Finally, they came to the Holy Child, and they did what every person should do. They fell down in adoration or worship, and they offered Him precious gifts.

At Epiphany, let us still seek Christ and follow the guidance of Scripture. Let us worship Him and offer Him our best gifts. Now that the worldly Yule and New Year have passed, Epiphany is an opportunity for Christians to pursue quieter and deeper devotion. So let us reflect on the coming of our Savior to save all nations!