Easter Sunday Prayer

Despite the war with Iran, despite our political divisions as a nation, I am resolved to claim faith over fear, bridge-building over hate, and victory over darkness. I invite you to pray this prayer as we celebrate hope and all we have through Christ this Easter:

Almighty God,
We ask you to take the broken pieces of our lives and form something good,
Something to startle and amaze us:
Like you startled the women at the tomb!
The women came to the tomb,
A place of decay and death, ready to meet you.
They went away instead with good news!

You had conquered the grave,
And you graft us into that moment, that promise, as your people today.
Transform us today through your power.
Forgive our sin,
Redeem the dead places in our lives,
And plant new seeds of life and hope.

May we live as an expectant people,
Bolstered by your grace.
Lord, where we are afraid, bring peace.
Where there is anger and division, bring humility and unity.
Where there is lack, bring your abundance.

We confess as your people:
Your spirit is alive and active—
Give us the eyes to see it and the willingness to be used by it!
Christ, when you were on Earth, you said,
“Blessed are those who believe, yet have not seen.”

While we are not face to face with you like the disciples of old
We affirm that you are working, even now, to redeem your creation.
We affirm as your people:
“Christ is risen! He is risen indeed.”
Could it be that we are uniquely poised to see you move in big ways
At such a time as this?

Release your Spirit and let it blow through our needy land.

Bind us together as one people in your service,

Use us as agents of your grace, and
Move mightily through your church.
For the world is hungry for what only You can provide.

Only You offer enduring peace.
Only You offer victorious hope.
Only You offer unconditional love.
And scripture promises that those who seek you will find you,
When they seek you with all their heart.
Hold our tender heart in Your strong hand.

Let us experience your Easter promise,
Face to face with your grace.
Meet us at the grave—
May your victory be our victory,
As we await the promise of all your glory,
Face to face in heaven. Amen.

John 11:25-26: "Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?'"

Romans 6:9: “For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him.”

I first wrote this prayer for publication online at Bible Study Tools. Looking for more Holy Week Inspiration? Here is my favorite Maundy Thursday article with inspiration to last the year! 

Also, check out my new "Speaking" tab on this website. Have a blessed Easter!