‘…the angel answered and said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for He is risen, as He said…”– Matthew 28:5-6 (NKJV)
We have all experienced moments of despair transforming into hope. Scripture depicts this magnificently on what we know as Resurrection Sunday.
It was early Sunday morning, three days after Jesus was crucified and buried, and Mary Magdalene and the other Mary set out to visit Jesus’ grave, with the finality of death and their hearts weighed down. There, they encountered an angel who was extraordinary. His countenance was like lightning, and his clothing was white as snow. He caused the guards to shake, and they became like dead men. The angel delivered one of the most significant proclamations of our Christian faith – “…He is not here; for He is risen, as He said…”.
What a profound truth! Jesus wasn’t only risen, but He was risen in accordance with His very promises – a fantastic reminder of how God always keeps His promises and His Word. Therefore, when we have moments of anguish and hopelessness, we can hold on to God’s promises just as Jesus did. Irrespective of any challenging, seemingly hopeless seasons in our lives, we can be confident knowing that Jesus’ words are genuine.
The angel further calls a charge of action – a request to witness the empty tomb. This is for all to understand the intensity and truth of the resurrection. This event was not merely historical; it was the reality that solemnly provided hope for all of us. His message was, “…go quickly…” (Matthew 28:7), highlighting urgency. We are required to proclaim the Good News to all; this is the heart of the Gospel.
We can all relate to the two Marys experiencing both fear and joy in their hearts. This intertwining usually happens as we encounter life-changing moments. It is always a moment of joy when we encounter the Divine. It is important that we recognise that both fear and joy can be woven together to form part of our faith journey.
Truly, when God shows up, always expect the unexpected to happen. No sooner had the Marys run off to share the Good News than they ran right into Jesus Himself. He greeted them with “Rejoice!” This is personal because the women knew Jesus. We who know Jesus should also rejoice.
The fact is that Jesus Christ is risen from the dead, and we can know Him personally as our Saviour and Lord. Jesus defeated death, and so He can give you life. Notwithstanding what is happening in your life, or what you deem as dead, Jesus can make it new again.
The message to you today is to stop being afraid. The Lord is risen. Get to know Him for yourself. Once you get to know Jesus personally, go tell someone else. The Lord, Jesus Christ, is risen!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for Jesus’ resurrection and the hope it gives all of us. We ask for Your guidance and strength to share Your love with others. Help us to be committed to sharing Your love, forgiveness, and hope with all. May we continue to follow Your will in Jesus’ holy name! Amen.
Read: Isaiah 40:31; Matthew 28:9-10
Bible Reading Guide: Proverbs 10:31-32; Proverbs 11:1-8; John 1:29-51; Joshua 17; Joshua 18
