Today’s Readings: Genesis 1:2-2:3; Exodus 14:10-15:1
Daily Lectionary: Exodus 13:17-14:9; Hebrews 7:1-22
“Rejoice now, all you heav’nly choirs of angels; rejoice now, all creation; sound forth, trumpet of salvation, and proclaim the triumph of our King.’” (Easter Proclamation – Exsultet)
This is the most holy of nights. It is the night when Christ rose bodily from the dead. It is the night of fulfillment, as all the Old Testament types of salvation are brought to their focus and completion in Christ's death and resurrection. It is the night of the first day of a new creation. It is the night of Isaac and the ram. It is the night of the Passover. It is the last night of Israel’s captivity in Egypt. It is the night of vindication for Job's Redeemer. It is the night of feasting – Word, Baptism, Supper.
In the words of Bishop John Chrysostom (c. 400 A.D.), “Hell is in turmoil, because it has been eclipsed. Hell is in turmoil because it is mocked. Hell is in turmoil, for it is destroyed. Hell is in turmoil, for it is annihilated. Hell is in turmoil, for it is now made captive. Hell grasped a corpse, and discovered God. Hell seized earth, and encountered heaven. Hell took what it saw, and was overcome by what it did not see. O death, where is thy sting? O hell, where is thy victory? Christ is risen, and you, O death, are obliterated! Christ is risen, and the evil ones are cast down! Christ is risen, and the angels rejoice! Christ is risen, and life is set free! Christ is risen, and the tomb is emptied of its dead; for Christ, having risen from the dead, is become the first-fruits of those who have fallen asleep. To God be glory and power forever and ever. Amen!”
Yes, this night is the first day of the new week. Creation, passover, exodus, Baptism, Supper, resurrection, freedom, light – all come together in Jesus. Such a night. Rejoicing comes in the morning, but tonight, it doesn’t wait! In the name of Jesus. Amen.
“O God, You made this most holy night to shine with the glory of the Lord’s resurrection. Preserve in us the spirit of adoption which You have given so that, made alive in body and soul, we may serve You purely; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.” (Collect for Easter Vigil)
Today's Reflection is written by the Rev'd Marcus Zill (zill@higherthings.org) of St. Andrew's Lutheran Church & Student Center in Laramie, Wyoming.