April 20

He Has Risen

"The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said." Matthew 28:5

 The women mentioned in our text are those who had faithfully supported Jesus during his ministry. They were the women who had remained at the foot of the cross, staying near their suffering Lord until the moment of death. These same women were going to the tomb to tend to his battered and torn body. Their love and devotion for Jesus Christ did not end with his death, it continued on. They were weary, sad and worried as they approached the tomb, wondering who would help them to move the stone that sealed the tomb. Their final devotion would be to cover their Lord's body with the spices they had brought. When they arrived, what a sight they saw! The stone had been rolled away and a glowing angel was seated upon it. Can you imagine the joy they felt as the words of the angel sank in? "Jesus is not here; He is risen just like he promised he would!" How appropriate that the resurrection of our Lord should be made known to these precious and devoted women first. They were the ones who could testify to his death; they had been there. Now they were the ones who would be the first to testify to his being alive. When they first approached the tomb, they had only sorrow and regrets. As they left the tomb, they were filled with joy and hope for the future. Yes, Christ had risen, death had been conquered and hope was born. The cross was not the end; it was only the beginning!

 Father, we know that the cross was necessary for our salvation and how we thank you for the sacrifice you made for us! Jesus, thank you for all that you suffered, that we might live in you. Father, how we thank you that the cross was not the end. We praise you for the resurrection morning and the hope it brought with it. Help us to live each moment of the day in the wonder of that glorious morning knowing that the future is bright with hope! Amen.