Lent Devotional | Easter Sunday

His Blessing: Resurrection Peace and Restoration

“Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.’” (Matthew 28:18)

The resurrection starts not with celebration but with doubt. The disciples saw the crucifixion, experienced loss, and became fearful. However, when Jesus appears after rising, He does not rebuke or scold them. Instead, He arrives offering blessings and peace. The risen Christ consoles fragile hearts with reassurance rather than judgment.

Matthew shows Jesus approaching with authority: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” This authority isn’t about domination but stems from love that has endured suffering and death. The crucified one now lives, proclaiming that nothing, sin, fear, suffering, or death, holds the ultimate power. His authority affirms that the resurrection is more than a historical event; it signals the start of a renewed and redeemed future.

For the disciples, these words would have offered deep hope. Though their surroundings still seemed uncertain, Jesus’ authority confirmed that God’s plans would succeed. Similarly, we often find ourselves caught between grief and hope, questioning how God will bring new life from brokenness. The risen Christ meets us there, His authority reminding us that our lives are part of a greater story, one defined by resurrection and hope.

Seeing the face of the risen Christ brings peace and assurance. His authority calms our hearts, reminding us that the One who defeated death now rules with compassion and strength. Since His authority is firm, our hope remains strong. And because He is with us, we can move forward confidently, trusting that His resurrection power keeps restoring and renewing us.

Mark Anderson Jefferson, Ph.D.

Assoc. Prof., John Gladstone Chair of Preaching & Worship
Acadia Divinity College
Wolfville, NS

Easter Sunday | His Blessing: Resurrection, Peace and Restoration

Matthew 28:1–10, 16–20

After the resurrection, Jesus comes near with reassurance and blessing, meeting fear with peace, restoring relationship, and sending His followers forward with hope and purpose.

May this passage draw us into the steady peace of the risen Christ, and into a life made new by His restoring presence.

Prayer

Risen Christ, thank You for Your authority that surpasses our fears and is stronger than death itself. Fill our hearts with confidence in Your victory and guide us to live each day in hope of Your resurrection.  Amen.

Reflection

Reflect on an area of uncertainty in your life. Remember that the risen Christ holds all authority. Ask Him to fill that space with His peace and give you confidence to move forward in the hope of His resurrection.