Welcome to the first Sunday, after the first full moon, after the vernal equinox (better known as the official start of spring). We call it Easter!

Three important gardens in Scripture: Eden, New Jerusalem, Place of Jesus' burial and resurrection.

John's gospel does not mention "resurrection", or "he is risen", or "why do you look for the living among the dead?" The writer is trying to get at the impact of the moment through the story of the first eye-witness: Mary Magdalene.

From Mary we find someone we can 1) identify with, 2) live vicariously through, and 3) see the tremendous impact of Jesus being raised to new life.

Mary experienced what was promised in Rev. 21 in that she had no more tears, there was no more death, all things were made new.

Garden can also be translated paradise in Scripture! That is what Jesus ushers in on the first Easter morning. A paradise for our past, present and future.

A couple of things to note: 1) Paradise is closer and more real than we often give it credit, 2) entering paradise is through Jesus' invitation and by his presence by faith which we seen in Mary as choosing to hang around and not give up.