Check back each Monday for a short devotional to help you start the week off well.
“And entering the tomb, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, dressed in a white robe, and they were alarmed. And he said to them, “Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen; he is not here. See the place where they laid him.” (Mark 16:5-6)
During this Holy Week as we look ahead to Easter, it is empowering to know that Jesus rose from the dead as he promised. We know this because we can read it in the Bible, and experience it when we accept Jesus as our Savior..
But on that first Easter, things were different. In the verses for today, the women closest to Jesus did not know what had happened. They returned to the tomb early on Sunday morning to finish the traditional Jewish burial preparations for Jesus. They were despondent over the death of Jesus who they loved so very much. They came expecting to find his mutilated body. Instead, what did they find?
We know from the other Biblical accounts of this story that the young man speaking to the women was an angel. What is the first thing that he says to them? Should we ever be afraid when God does something in our lives? Have you noticed that when we are discouraged or going through a tough time, God often blesses us by coming to us and speaking to us in unexpected ways? When has he done that in your life?
What proof is offered for the resurrection? Isn’t it comforting to know that that same proof is still available today? The tomb is empty. Jesus is alive.
Why is it important that Jesus rose from the dead? What does this say about the promises of Jesus? Have you asked the resurrected Jesus to be the Lord of your life?
My God and my King, thank you for your victory over death that was proven by your Son dying for my sins and then rising from dead. Cleanse me of my sins, fill me with your Spirit, and give me the boldness to tell those around me that Jesus is risen indeed! Amen.
