Jesus Holds the Keys

Reflecting on the Second Sunday of Easter: One Day after Sunday (Year C)

Scripture

Psalm 122; Esther 7:1-10; Revelation 1:9-20

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Prayer

Mighty God, in whom we know the power of redemption, you stand among us in the shadows of our time. As we move through every sorrow and trial of this life, uphold us with knowledge of the final morning when, in the glorious presence of your risen Son, we will share in his resurrection, redeemed and restored to the fullness of life and forever freed to be your people. Amen. (Revised Common Lectionary)

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Reflection

Revelation 1:9-20

When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. But he placed his right hand on me, saying, “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last and the Living One. I was dead, and see, I am alive forever and ever, and I have the keys of Death and of Hades (vv. 17-18).

There are moments when fear seems to close in like a shadow—moments when uncertainty, grief, or loss threatens to overwhelm our hearts. In these moments, the voice of Jesus in Revelation 1 offers a steadying hand on the shoulder: “Do not be afraid.”