RISEN

When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus’ body. Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb and they asked each other, “Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb?”

But when they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away. As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed.

“Don’t be alarmed,” he said. “You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. But go, tell his disciples and Peter. ‘He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.’” Mark 16:1-7, NIV

He has risen! I love to read and say those words. Jesus has risen indeed. Can you imagine that wake-up call?

I can imagine the anguish the angels felt watching the Crucifixion. They had to wonder what in the world was going to happen next. How could the one they had worshipped in Heaven leave His throne of glory to go to earth and then die this horrible death? How could this be?

The Sabbath passed and at some point before dawn on Sunday, the Father woke His Son from the grave. I wonder how that scene played out. Did He whisper? Was there a thunderous sound?  Did the Heavens roar in praise and applause as the angels watched the Son of God open His eyes and leave the tomb? Who was the angel at the tomb that spoke with those who had come to anoint Christ’s body? Oh to have witnessed this day. He has risen!

Two thousand years later it gives me chills to sit and wonder at it all. I am filled with love, amazement, thanksgiving, and hope.

What emotions does Easter stir in you?

Have you ever thought about that glorious awakening?

Easter is the most important day in history and in our own lives. Please, do not let it pass by celebrating bunnies and eggs. Millions of Christians celebrate this calendar holiday. Consider why. Rise to the occasion. He did!

Dear Lord, it is a most glorious thought to imagine what it would have been like to be there when You conquered death!  We are grateful to worship You today.  Amen.

Copyright Kathy Branzell.

Kathy has a heart for encouraging Christian educators and currently serves as the President of the National Day of Prayer Task Force. Prior to this role, she was the founder and president of Fellowship and Christian Encouragement (FACE) for Educators.

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Teachers of Vision is a digital and printed magazine that is for teachers and written by teachers to encourage and equip the educational community.

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CE Summer Bible Study

Thanks for your interest in joining us as we read through the New Testament with our fellow Christian educators this summer!