We Rejoice at What the Women Did Not Find

Following the crucifixion, the days were most likely quiet and somber. The years spent following Jesus, hearing about the hope and witnessing the miracles... all over? just like that? All that was left was to honor the memories by taking care of the body. Surely the women moved with heavy hearts as they took spices to use on Jesus' body.

But when they arrived, the stone had been rolled away from the tomb. What on earth? what did this mean? They ventured inside, probably feeling uncertain and perhaps, even scared. Once inside, they were confused because they didn't see the body. But two men stood there in shining garments.

Then as they were afraid and bowed their faces to the earth, they said to them, "Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen! (Luke 24:5-6)

How they must have marveled and rejoiced, as they ran to tell the Disciples who were in hiding, mourning the loss of a dear friend, perhaps even questioning their dedication, and fearful they would soon be targets themselves. Peter ran quickly to the tomb and saw the empty linen cloths, amazed at what had happened. Surely he was also remembering that he had denied Jesus three times, just as predicted. The others did not even believe the women.

Later, some of the Disciples were walking down the road when Jesus walked with them. In their sorrow, they did not even pay enough attention to realize it was Him, even though He spoke all about Himself! They sat at the table... perhaps even thinking back to the Passover meal they had shared just a few days before....

Now it came to pass, as He sat at the table with them, that He took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. (Luke 24:30) 

Suddenly, they realized that this was Jesus and ran to tell the others in town! Jesus appeared to them again and when they doubted, showed His hands and feet as proof.

Then He said to them, "Thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.  (Luke 24:46-47)

Yes, Jesus is risen. And for us, this makes all the difference, between a well-known prophet and a Savior. We serve a RISEN Savior! Hallelujah!

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One of my favorites of the season is this song by Don Francisco, He's Alive! We heard him sing it live when we were in college, and Keith sang it many times since then. It's a powerful song. Please listen to it.