🙏Weekly Devotion April 7th, 2026

Fjeldberg – Devotion for April 7th, 2026

READ (1 Peter 1:3)

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. 

REFLECT 

Two days ago we celebrated Easter. Now it is Tuesday. The pews are empty, the enthusiasm has dimmed, and the world has returned to the routine and heaviness of daily life. Today we remember that the story of Easter does not end but moves into Tuesdays and all the days ahead no matter what may happen. 

Many of us have experienced harsh and unexpected Easter Sundays. On April 18, 1976…a warm and joyful Easter morning changed abruptly for my family as we gathered for dinner after church to learn that my 44 year old brother had a serious illness. Despite heartfelt prayers, intense medical efforts, loving pastoral support, and wonderful caregivers, he died three months later. He left behind his wife, four sons, and a close knit community of family, friends, and business partners, all of whom depended on his strength, wisdom, and love. 

Even though we sought and believed in the promise of the resurrection and eternal life, we were overwhelmed with grief, lament, anger, fear, and doubt. It seemed improbable, especially to my young nephews, that life would ever have the same substance and stability. 

By the grace of God, the support of countless human disciples, and guidance of the Holy Spirit, we moved, ever so slowly, from despair to renewed hope, deeper faith, and peace with God’s plan. We stayed together, the sun did shine again, and lives were transformed to walk more closely in Christ’s footsteps.

The memory of that Easter and the “Tuesdays” that followed remain vivid decades later, especially during worship when the resounding promise of “Christ Has Risen” rings out. Yes, tears may flow as memories of loved ones surface, but the real message for Christians is joy. No matter the turmoil, noise, and hardships in our midst and throughout the world, the words “Christ Has Risen” affirm the resurrection which offers the gifts of hope, transformation, and eternal peace.    

PRAY   

Dear gracious Father, Thank you for the promise of the resurrection, even when Easter feels shadowed by past or present challenges. Give us the strength to carry everlasting hope into the days after Easter, trusting in you to make all things new.   In Jesus name we pray, Amen.

Devotions by Lorraine H.