Easter: He Still Rolls Stones Away
Easter: He Still Rolls Stones Away
Speaker: Pastor Lee Cummings
Date: April 20, 2025
This Easter, join Pastor Lee Cummings as he unpacks the powerful story of Mary Magdalene from Mark’s Gospel. We’re reminded that the same Jesus who rolled away the stone from His own tomb is still moving stones in our lives—sin, shame, and brokenness that keep us stuck. Look up. The stone has already been rolled away.
Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on this sermon:
Day 1: The Stone Rolled Away
Reading: Mark 15:42–16:8
Devotional: Just as the women approached Jesus' tomb, wondering who would roll away the stone, we often face seemingly insurmountable obstacles in our lives. But God is in the business of rolling away stones. Reflect on the "stones" in your life—pride, fear, addiction, or past regrets. Remember that Jesus has the power to remove these barriers. How can you look up to Him today, trusting in His ability to do what you cannot? Pray for the faith to believe that no stone is too heavy for our risen Lord.
Day 2: From Death to Life
Reading: Romans 5:6–11
Devotional: Paul reminds us that Christ died for us while we were still sinners. This demonstrates the depth of God's love: He didn't wait for us to get our act together. Like Mary Magdalene, who was freed from seven demons, we too have been rescued from spiritual death. Consider the ways God has brought you from death to life. How has His love transformed you? Take time to thank Him for His unconditional love and the new life He offers. Ask for grace to extend that same love to others, even those who seem undeserving.
Day 3: The Empty Tomb
Reading: John 20:1-18
Devotional: The empty tomb is the cornerstone of our faith. It proves that Jesus has power over death and that His promises are true. Mary Magdalene's encounter with the risen Christ turned her grief into joy and her despair into hope. How does the reality of the resurrection impact your daily life? Are there areas where you need to embrace the hope of the empty tomb? Pray for a renewed sense of the living Christ's presence in your life, and for courage to share this hope with others.
Day 4: Walking Out of Tombs
Reading: Ephesians 2:1-10
Devotional: Paul describes how we were once dead in our transgressions, but God made us alive with Christ. Like Jesus leaving behind His grave clothes, we too are called to leave behind our old ways and walk in newness of life. What "grave clothes" do you need to leave behind? It might be harmful habits, negative thought patterns, or worldly values. Ask God to help you identify these areas and to give you strength to walk out of your "tomb" into the fullness of life He offers.
Day 5: Witnesses to the Resurrection
Reading: Acts 1:1–11
Devotional: Before ascending to heaven, Jesus commissioned His followers to be His witnesses. Like the disciples, we too are called to testify to the reality of the risen Christ. Reflect on your own encounter with Jesus. How has He changed your life? What is your resurrection story? Ask God for opportunities to share your testimony with others, and for the courage to do so. Pray for the Holy Spirit's power to be an effective witness in your daily life, pointing others to the hope found in Christ.