The divine services in April will focus on key stages of Jesus’ Passion: the institution of Holy Communion, Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, and His death on the cross. We will also discuss the events of Easter, in other words the resurrection of Jesus, and explore the fullness of Jesus’ power that is associated with it. The divine service on the first Sunday in April is to commemorate the institution of Holy Communion. Jesus celebrated the Passover meal with His disciples in remembrance of the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt. Holy Communion far surpasses this. It is not merely the celebration of a past event, but the real presence of the sacrifice of Jesus and His body and blood.
The second Sunday, namely Palm Sunday, is dedicated to Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem. Here Jesus reveals Himself as the King of the kingdom of God. Often, the people failed to understand Him and were unable to grasp the significance of His actions. Only through the Holy Spirit are we able to recognise and believe that Jesus is King, Priest, and Prophet.
On Good Friday, Christians commemorate the death of Jesus. This death differs from all others in that it does not represent an end or a failure, but rather a pivotal event of salvation: it rectifies the relationship between God and humankind. Salvation is now open to all who believe in the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The suffering and mockery to which Jesus was subjected on the cross reveal His unconditional love.
On Easter, the day of Christ’s resurrection, we celebrate the victory of life over the powers of death. The resurrection of Jesus is likewise an expression of God’s love for humankind. This event makes it clear that Jesus’ crucifixion is not a defeat, but a victory. The resurrection is the reason we trust in the victory of life even when faced with suffering and death.
On the fourth Sunday, we will focus on the divine authority of Jesus Christ. He has all power over creation, over life and death, and over evil. Jesus Christ is Lord over all. His all-encompassing power is permeated by love and forgiveness. Christ gives us support, stability, and confidence, which is the only way we can keep our faith.
