Pastor's Portal

April 2026

Rev. David Schmidt

April 1, 2026

As we step into April, we arrive at the greatest celebration in the church year: Easter Sunday. On this day we rejoice in the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus, who was laid in a tomb on Good Friday is dead no more. He rose victorious from the grave. Through His death and resurrection, we receive forgiveness of sins, salvation, and eternal life with Him. Our sins have been fully paid for—we no longer carry guilt. Death has been defeated—we no longer need to fear the grave. No wonder Easter Sunday fills us with such joy and wonder!

We often think of Easter as just one day, but did you know it is actually a whole season? The season of Easter lasts seven weeks. Throughout this time we greet one another with the ancient words of faith: “He is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia!” The paraments on the altar remain white, symbolizing purity and victory, and the Paschal candle—usually tucked away in the corner and brought out only for baptisms—now stands lit in the center of the chancel for the entire season.

The resurrection is far too momentous to contain in a single day. That’s why each Sunday during the Easter season we hear different accounts and teachings that unfold the meaning of what Jesus has done for us.

• On Easter Sunday we stand at the empty tomb with the women who came to anoint Jesus’ body, only to find Him risen.
• On the Second Sunday we meet Doubting Thomas, who missed Jesus’ first appearance to the disciples behind locked doors. The Lord graciously returns to show Thomas His nail marks and pierced side, turning doubt into confession: “My Lord and my God!”
• On the Third Sunday Jesus walks with the two disciples on the road to Emmaus, opening the Scriptures to show how the whole Bible points to Him.
• The Fourth Sunday, Good Shepherd Sunday, reminds us that Jesus is our Good Shepherd, who leads us through the valley of the shadow of death into eternal life with Him.
• On the Fifth Sunday Jesus comforts His disciples, promising to go and prepare a place for us and assuring us that He will come back to take us to Himself.
• The Sixth Sunday brings His promise to send the Holy Spirit after His ascension.
• The following Thursday is Ascension Day, when Jesus ascends into heaven before the eyes of His disciples.
• Finally, on the Seventh Sunday of Easter we hear Jesus’ High Priestly Prayer, where He intercedes for His disciples – and still intercedes for us today at His Father’s right hand.

I invite you to join us throughout this Easter season as together we celebrate the most important event in all of history—the resurrection of our Lord. Let’s savor it week by week, letting the truth of the risen Christ fill our hearts with hope, joy, and unshakable confidence in His promises. He is risen indeed!