The day that changed human history was not a joyful one. Matthew records that there was a violent earthquake, and the guards were so afraid that they shook and became like dead men. The women who came to the tomb to perform the last rites were sad and somber. This Easter morning was not a time to celebrate, it was a time to weep
He is Risen
Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen!
Luke 12: 5b-6a
On Easter Sunday millions of Christians gathered in worship spaces to celebrate the resurrection of our LORD and Savior, Jesus Christ. Easter gives us the opportunity to remember with deep gratitude what our Savior did for us on that cross. It is a time for renewal and rebirth.
Just two days earlier, the women had witnessed the worst possible event. They had witnessed the crucifixion and death of Jesus. Later his body was laid in the tomb and the mouth of the tomb was sealed with a stone. Those who had hoped that this king would save them, saw all their hopes dashed as evening fell.
Easter Reminds Us to Look Up
Every now and then, we hear miraculous stories of people who have come back to life from the brink of death. We are captivated by these near-death stories because they give us a glimpse into the hope that we all cling to concerning the afterlife with Jesus. Our physical death is the portal to this eternal dwelling. It is the final step to something new.