Resurrection Encounters
April 5, 2026
On Easter, the risen Jesus meets ordinary people in real places of grief, fear, doubt and everything changes. Resurrection is more than something we believe. It is a life we step into, where hope reshapes how we live, love, and move in the world. Having encountered the risen Christ, we are changed to live life being made new everyday.
READ
John 20:1–18
Jesus said to Mary, “Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you looking for?” Supposing him to be the gardener, she said to him, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away.” Jesus said to her, “Mary!” She turned and said to him in Hebrew, “Rabbouni!” (which means Teacher). Jesus said to her, “Do not touch me, because I have not yet ascended to the Father. But go to my brothers and say to them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’ ” Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord,” and she told them that he had said these things to her.
REFLECT
1. What fears or uncertainties hold you back from fully stepping into new life?
2. Where is Jesus already present in your daily life, inviting you to recognize Him anew?
3. What does it look like for your life and your community to reflect hope in a way others can see and experience?
RESPOND
1. Practice resurrection in your relationships. Offer forgiveness, initiate reconciliation, and extend unexpected grace where it feels undeserved.
2. Live as a witness, not just a believer. Share, in a simple and natural way, how you’ve experienced God in your life with someone each week.
3. Interrupt despair with presence: When you encounter negativity or heaviness in yourself or others, respond with grounded hope. Listen, encourage, and stay present.