Vigil/Day Acts 10:34,37-43; Psalm 117(118); Romans 6:3-11/Colossians 3:1-4/1 Corinthians 5:6-8; Mark 16:1-7/John 20:1-9
In a vision in Acts Peter is told that all animals and birds are suitable for eating: the restrictions of the Jewish Law are ending. So he can enter the house of Cornelius, a Gentile. Peter’s speech is interrupted by the Holy Spirit welcoming the Gentile community into the church. Peter realises that forgiveness of sins is offered to “everyone who believes” in Jesus’ name.
The vigil reading from Paul sees our baptism as joining Christ in his tomb, to rise to a new life in Christ, freed from the slavery of sin.
The dramatic Passover psalm thanks God for repeatedly coming to our rescue and saving us.
Paul’s letter to the Colossians draws attention away from earthly marks of religion: having died to things on earth, they should focus on the life to come when they “will appear with Christ in glory”. The alternative reading refers to the feast of Unleavened Bread, which followed Passover..
In the three synoptic gospels three women discover the tomb empty and run to tell the apostles. But in John’s gospel Mary of Magdala is alone. Finding the stone removed from the tomb, she runs to tell Peter. Peter goes in first and sees the empty burial cloths. When the other disciple goes in, he believes.
Psalm Response: Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia
Or: This day was made by the Lord: we rejoice and are glad.