“HE HAS RISEN!”
By Rev. Dan Minor
“But the angel said to the women, ‘Do not be afraid; for I know you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for he has risen, as he said …” (Matthew 28:5, 6)
The resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead is a glorious fact that sets Christianity apart from all other world religions. No other religion can claim that their founder died for their sins and rose from the dead to save them.
The gospel writers describe it in different ways. Here is the order. Mark describes it as a personal experience (Mark 16:108). Luke gives a comprehensive account (Luke 24:1-48). Matthew describes it as an earth-shaking experience (Matthew 28:1-20). John wants us to know His resurrection is a proven fact (John 20:1-31). Yet, they agree on one important truth: HE HAS RISEN!
The human reaction shows a variety of emotions: terror, reverent fear, joy, worship, a foot race to the tomb, surprise, astonishment, touch and talking it out. The angelic commands were “Come in and see…” (Matthew 28:6); “Go quickly and tell …” (Matthew 28:7).
The message for us today is the same as it was on that first Easter. “Go” “Tell” “Share.” As we say in our United Methodist Service of Word and Table. “Christ has died; Christ is risen; Christ will come again”
The only hope for our world and for our souls is the fact HE HAS RISEN! HE HAS RISEN INDEED!
Prayer
Dear Lord, help us to experience Your living presence in our lives and to share Your good news with others. In Your strong name. Amen.
