Image © missio Aachen.

The tomb is empty—but the story is still unfolding in us. With Revelation’s vision and André Kamba Luesa’s radiant painting of the Risen Christ, this session invites you to witness resurrection as both cosmic and personal. Come celebrate new life—and discover what Christ is raising within you.

Revelation 1:13-18

This contemplative session explores a powerful and triumphant vision of the resurrection of Christ, emphasizing not only the personal and quiet moments of resurrection—such as Jesus’ appearance to Mary at the tomb—but also the cosmic and victorious dimension of Christ’s triumph over death. The session centers around the bold and vibrant painting The Resurrection by Congolese artist André Kamba Luesa, whose work visually proclaims Christ’s power, presence, and liberation.

The reflection begins by grounding participants in the truth that nothing, in life or in death, can separate us from the love of God. Unlike traditional resurrection scenes, the scripture passage for this session comes from Revelation 1:13–18, offering a symbolic and majestic vision of the risen Christ as experienced by John of Patmos. Participants are encouraged to listen not simply for comprehension, but for personal resonance—focusing on words, phrases, or emotions that seem especially significant, as these may carry a message from God.

The description of Christ in Revelation is rich with imagery: a gold sash, hair shining with light, eyes like fire, a voice like rushing water, and a sword from his mouth. This powerful portrayal invites a visceral response, and participants are asked to pay attention to their reactions—emotional and spiritual—as they imagine this radiant figure of Christ.

As the painting is introduced, participants are guided to look carefully at Kamba Luesa’s composition, noticing Christ at the center, leaping over the abyss using the cross as a pole vault, and surrounded by jubilant worshippers. The African context of the painting places the resurrection in a culturally specific and yet universally resonant setting, emphasizing that the resurrection is not just an ancient event but an ongoing, global reality. The joy of Christ’s victory is expressed in both movement and color—through a glowing sky, warm hues, and the dynamic figures of people celebrating Christ’s triumph.

Participants are invited to consider how their initial reactions to the scripture relate to their responses to the painting. They are encouraged not to analyze but to encounter—to place themselves in the crowd, to consider what they are celebrating, and to thank God for the gifts of hope and resurrection. The words and phrases from Revelation that stood out are used as entry points into deeper reflection, helping participants notice connections between divine message and artistic expression.

As Revelation 1:13–18 is read again, the focus shifts to discernment: What is God asking of you through these words? What message or invitation is Christ offering? A time of silence follows, allowing participants to respond personally in prayer—sharing their fears, hopes, and longings with the risen Christ, and asking for resurrection power in their lives.

The session concludes with a prayer of blessing. Participants are reminded that they carry the power and presence of the risen Christ with them, that God strengthens them for every good work, and that nothing can separate them from divine love. This episode encourages a bold and embodied faith, inviting viewers to not only witness the resurrection but to participate in it, as recipients and celebrants of Christ’s enduring victory.