Jesus is not dead! He was raised from the dead on the third day, just like he said! What those women must have felt that morning. They had gone prepared to see and anoint a dead body. But it was gone!
Unbelief! Fear? Do you think they feared Jesus’ body had been taken? It doesn’t sound like they even questioned who the “young man” was in the story. How do you accept news like that from a stranger! There was God.
What his friends must have felt when they saw Jesus among them. Did they think he was back for good? Some great exchanges took place. There was God.
I found it a little interesting that there were three endings to this gospel. Did your Bible have them all? (If not, be sure to click the link above.)
I was delighted to see that these disciples were finally getting to work. They were finally able to see what their purpose and mission was. They had quite a testimony to share. By sharing their story as Jesus had instructed, we are able to speak of and worship Jesus still today. There was God.
What if the disciples had continued to be blinded and confused by what Jesus was trying to tell them? Where might we be today? Do you think that people can change that fast? Neither to do. It must be God. God began a good work in them.
We have the same instructions. We are called to be disciples to this dark and dreary world. Jesus’ final words before he left this earth to ascend to his Father were, “Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone.”
The disciples did just that. The text says they went “everywhere.” Praise to God for opening their eyes and their mouths!
What frightens me a bit is Jesus also said, “But anyone who refuses to believe will be condemned.” Do you have loved ones that don’t believe in Jesus? Do they “refuse” to believe, or is it they just don’t have the understanding they need to believe? Either way, they are separated from Jesus and the eternal life he brings.
That is our purpose, our goal, our “why”, as we’d say in business. Jesus declared it. We need to tell as many people as we can to keep the ripple effect going worldwide. It’s a very big world. It starts in our homes and neighborhoods.
Who in your circle of friends or family need to hear about Jesus? What do you share? Your story. That’s simple, just tell them how your life is better with Jesus in it. They can choose to accept or not, but your story is still your story. It’s yours. Jesus loves you.
Let’s pray. Jesus forgive me when I don’t seize every opportunity presented to me to share the gospel. I pray for the wisdom to see your path for me. If there are folks that need to hear of your saving grace today, please open my eyes. I thank you for the many blessings you have given me and my family. May they all turn to you and rely on you. May the truth they have heard resonate in their heart and take root. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
