Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Yes, Jesus rose on that long ago Easter morning. He conquered death. He rose to visit with the women and His disciples before He ascended to heaven. All were astonished, even though He had told them this would happen.
God works in amazing ways. He sends angels to carry out some tasks for Him. For instance, an angel rolled the stone away so the tomb could be seen as being empty. Did the stone need to be rolled away for Jesus to leave the tomb? No. It was rolled away so we, mankind, would know He was no longer there.
For those who saw the empty tomb after having witnessed His gruesome death, I’m sure there was disbelief. In fact, the women asked the gardener where he had taken Him. But the excitement soon came as Jesus talked with the women. They ran off to tell His Apostles.
We are told that Peter and John, specifically, ran to the tomb to verify the women’s story. They, too, were astonished. But it wasn’t long until Jesus appeared to them, as well. They soon were rejoicing that He lived. Of course, who can forget “doubting” Thomas. We give him a hard time, but Peter and John also ran to the tomb so they could see for themselves. Thomas merely did the same thing we would do. After all, how many things are we told and won’t believe until we see for ourselves? Especially if it is something that is extraordinary.
I pray we all believe Jesus rose from the dead. I pray we accept His wonderful grace and mercy. I pray each one of us celebrate this Easter glorifying God for giving us a perfect Savior. Rejoice in the Lord. Give God thanks. Know that Christ has risen. Put your faith in Him. Accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior.
Matthew 28:2-4 There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men.
Marty Pressey 