We began with Jeremiah 31 v1-6. Strong "new life" imagery of new life and hope after devastation- planting vineyards and returning to the land.
Psalm 118 is a festive psalm of thanksgiving- the image of "The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone" is later used by Jesus to describe himself, after telling the parable of the talents in Matthew 21. It also contains the oft quotes in hymns line: "this is the day that the Lord has made"
I am grateful for the AI research skills of ChatGPT for searching out some learned thoughts on Peter's speech in Acts 10. Points made about this text include:
- Peter realises that God shows no partiality - the gospel is for everyone, not just Israel.
- He summarises Jesus’ life: doing good, healing, crucified, and raised on the third day.
- The resurrection is presented as witnessed reality, not just belief.
- Forgiveness is offered “to all who believe in him.”
- Easter here is not just an event—it’s the launch of a universal mission.
And finally, of course, a Gospel account of the resurrection- John's intimate and personal telling of Mary Magdalene being the first to witness and proclaim the risen Jesus. Her confusion and distress at discovering the empty tomb is followed by the realisation when Jesus calls her by name.
So...
A Rosary for Easter Sunday
The Cross
Risen Lord Jesus,
you have passed through death into life.
Open our hearts to recognise you,
our voices to proclaim you,
and our lives to reflect your everlasting love.
Amen.
He is risen indeed. Alleluia!
you have loved us with an everlasting love;
draw us back to you when we are lost,
and restore us in joy.
your love endures forever.
Bring us from death to life,
from sorrow to joy,
from silence to proclamation.
Alleluia.
The Second Cruciform Bead- Theme: Celebration and Salvation (Psalm 118)
this is the day you have made;
help us to rejoice and be glad in it.
repeat the Weeks' beads prayer cycle
The Third Cruciform Bead- Theme: Proclaiming the Risen Christ (Acts 10)
Living God,you raised Jesus on the third day;
fill us with your Spirit,
that we may bear witness to his resurrection
you called Mary by name;
call us also,
that we may know your presence and follow you.
He is risen indeed. Alleluia!
who brings life out of death,
fill us with peace, courage, and joy;
and the blessing of God Almighty,
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,
be among us and remain with us always.
Amen.
