Clement of Alexandria was a Greek Christian theologian who lived a century and a half after Jesus.  He once made a statement that still comes true today.  Clement said, "Jesus Christ turns all our sunsets into dawn."

That's what Jesus' friends discovered that first Easter morning.  On Saturday they had been numb with despair.  Their situation seemed hopeless.  But the risen Savior turned their sunset into dawn.  On Easter morning the power and the glory burst upon them.  Christ had risen.  The Master had returned.

Grief-stricken Mary heard him calling her by name.  Guilt-ridden Peter faced his Lord and found himself forgiven.  Doubt-plagued Thomas touched Christ's body and knew he was back.

If we take our Bibles and quickly turn from one gospel to another, we can catch the excitement they felt.  Two short words appear over and over - "they ran...."  They didn't walk.  Peter and John and Mary ran!  Their friend was back.  Death hadn't changed him.  He knew their names.  His love was as strong - and as gentle - as ever.  Their sunset had vanished in the splendor of dawn!

Prayer:  "Loving God, help me to be all you would have me to be, in Jesus' name.  Amen."

Today's Services

8:30 "Tears on Easter" John 20: 11 - 18

10:30 "The Great Promises of Easter" 

Matthew 28: 16-20