Lectionary Year A
March 31, 2002
Matthew 28:1-10
Contemporary Address
Step VI - Contemporary Address
A. Goals
(JFC) A sermon from this text could describe the Risen Christ as a personal friend in times of need, loneliness, trouble, etc.
B. Describing the Audience
(JFC) Any congregation warranting a view of a more personal rather than merely an
intellectual Christ might well benefit from a proclamation from this lection. On Easter Sunday, a more personally oriented sermon might be called for.
C. Contemporary Address
(JFC) A sermon, entitled, for this working draft, "What a Friend We Have In Jesus"
Introduction
The hymn, "What a Friend We Have In Jesus" has meanings this Bible story illustrates.
I. Jesus Meets and Greets us
A. Jesus Christ comes to us where we are. He is always close enough to catch up with us at any time, in any place with whomever we travel and under any circumstances. He never butts in, merely avails Himself to us for when we need Him.
B. Christ's greeting lets us know just how very friendly He can be for us when we need such a friend. Andy Rooney once said that among the things he had learned in life is that everyone we meet deserves to be greeted with a smile. Evidently Christ knew that, too.
II. Jesus Dispels Fears
A. Since 9/11/01, fear is real through our days and nights. Our Savior knows we suffer fear. He addresses it here and elsewhere and He lets us realize He knows we do fear.
B. Christ tells us to let fear go.
III. Jesus Promises And Charges For Response
A. Christ tells the women to get on with their lives. He calls them to carry on with their responsibilities to go and tell others about His empty Tomb/Resurrection.
B. He promises He will be visible as He obviously was to the women who grabbed His feet and worshipped Him. See Him? Well, do we?
Conclusion
Easter's Gospel Lesson reminds us just how available for us Jesus Christ is.
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