Lenten Devotional – April 9, 2023

Sunday, April 9, 2023
Easter Sunday
I guess I haven’t learned that yet
by Shauna Niequist, Author
Devotional by Pastor Carrie Baylis
Sabbath doesn’t always come easy
 
As I got nearer to finishing this lovely book I was beginning to understand that just because we have always known something one way, doesn’t mean it’s the only way.  On this day of resurrection I’m sure that the disciples and Mary had only seen death and the tomb one way before this day.  But it was not the way that would change the world forever.  What they would find on the third day is that the tomb is empty.  While they rested in the quiet sadness of Good Friday and Holy Saturday, they were met with fear, excitement, concern, and eventually joy when they were met with an empty tomb.  We each have to find a way to our own empty tomb experience, to the joy in something new, in finding rest and refreshment in new ways that speak to each of us filling us up with the restorative grace and mercy of God. I hope this Lenten season has opened you up to discovering new ways of rest and to delight in a sabbath that leaves you with joy for what it next to come in this journey with God.

Prayer: Alleluia, he is Risen!  We pray for Christ who has come for each of us, to forgive us, renew us, and lead us.  Let us meet him in ways that bring us joy, love, and renewal in and of our faith.  Let us rest easy knowing that he will always come to us. He is Risen indeed! Alleluia and Amen.