Bible Passage: 1 Corinthians 15:1-23
“For I handed on to you as of first importance what I in turn had received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the scriptures, and he was buried, and that he was raised on the third day.” (vv.3-4)
Reflection
On this Holy Saturday, we have time to draw breath after the grim events of Good Friday and prepare ourselves for the excitements to come tomorrow. Unlike the disciples, we have the benefit of hindsight and know that Christ’s crucifixion was far from being the end. Rather, it was the beginning of the new age.
So, why was the resurrection so important and what does it mean for us to share in it?
As Paul states, Christ died to save us from our sins. But the crucifixion was only the first part of that process. The resurrection fulfilled the act of salvation by Jesus overcoming mortal death and the sin attached to human life.
And we can all share in Christ’s risen life through dedicating ourselves to following him. Though our deepening faith and the commitment of baptism we become members of God’s family and share all the wonderful benefits that involves. As Paul states in verse 23 of our passage, Christ, through his death and resurrection is like the first fruits of a harvest. Then, at his second coming, we too, who belong to him, will also attain eternal life.
Tomorrow, as part of our Easter celebrations, we have the chance to renew our baptismal vows, demonstrating once again how we share in Christ’s resurrection. But sharing in the resurrection is not just an Easter activity. Faith is something we live out day to day.
This may be through our daily devotions of prayer and Bible reading and through the sacrament of Communion. It is also by following Christ’s example in the way we lead our lives. Jesus made a once for all sacrifice for us upon the cross to save us from our sins but that was not so that we could just repeat them. We only truly share in his resurrection when we commit to living Godly lives and loving God and loving our neighbours as ourselves.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, I thank you for the victory you won over death. Your empty tomb is my living hope, and your risen life is my assurance of eternal joy. Help me to walk each day in the light of your triumph, with a heart full of praise and a spirit anchored in your promise of everlasting life. Amen
Sarah Keen
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