Tag: redemption

Matthew 28:1-4 – Into the Light

“Early on Sunday morning, as the new day was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went out to visit the tomb. Suddenly there was a great earthquake! For an angel of the Lord came down from heaven, rolled aside the stone, and sat on it. His face shone like lightning, and his clothing was as white as snow. The guards shook with fear when they saw him, and they fell into a dead faint.” (Matthew 28:1-4)

Happy Easter! We can celebrate Easter every day because we live in a world that knows a resurrected Savior. Getting to know Jesus is the best way we can spend our time in this life. Not knowing Jesus is only half living, and sadly, too many people don’t realize that. So Happy Resurrection Day, as we say in Mexico! Jesus lives! Hallelujah.

Context (Matthew 28:1-10): This is Matthew’s account of what happened when Jesus rose from the dead. Matthew puts the two Mary’s at the tomb. They are the messengers who tell the other disciples that Jesus is alive. Not only do they encounter an angel, but they receive a message from Jesus himself. Can you even imagine what these women must have been thinking or feeling? It might be a joyous disbelief, yet complete awe, reverence, and peace. Let yourself feel that exuberance as you reread the text. Continue reading “Matthew 28:1-4 – Into the Light”

Leviticus 25:23-55 – Redemption

Read Leviticus 25:23-55

One of the first words a toddler learns to say is “mine.” As we grow older, that idea of things belonging to us changes, but we can get territorial over our belongings, can’t we? Unlike most expats around our area who move into a furnished home with other people’s stuff, David and I brought our household with us, so we’re surrounded by the familiar, something I want to protect.

But what about ownership? Think about it for a minute. If you “own” a car or a house, do you really own it? In terms of our society, yes. In terms of God’s economy, no. Continue reading “Leviticus 25:23-55 – Redemption”

Luke 19:45-48 – Jesus’ Anger

Read Luke 19:45-48

Yes, Jesus gets angry! Our intimate walk with Jesus to the cross continues as he enters Jerusalem. You’ll recall how he cried out to Jerusalem in our last reading, lamenting her future. Now he sees firsthand how the holy Temple has been abused! Jeremiah’s prophecy had predicted it, “Don’t you yourselves admit that this Temple, which bears my name, has become a den of thieves? Surely I see all the evil going on there. I, the Lord, have spoken!” (Jeremiah 7:11)

What did Jesus’ disciples do at his outburst? They were certainly surprised. Jesus was usually the calm, level-headed one who loved even the unlovable. This display of anger made sense, especially considering the pressure Jesus was under knowing his final hours were approaching.

Continue reading “Luke 19:45-48 – Jesus’ Anger”
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