Matthew 28:1-10 The Resurrection

The tomb had been sealed and secured with a guard of Roman soldiers. But nothing could contain the Son of God. An earthquake shook the tomb. An angel rolled back the stone. The sealed tomb was opened. The guard became like dead. A message is given to the women who came to see the tomb: "He is not here! He has risen!" How fitting to deliver the message firsthand to those who were seeking Jesus. A call is issued: "Come and see!" And once they realize that the tomb is empty a commission is given: "Go and tell!"

This is the essence of the Gospel. The message of the cross compels me to seek Jesus. His display of love and forgiveness is like no other in the universe. He loved me so much as to give his life for me. He hung on the cross to give me the opportunity into a new life. He unselfishly offered himself in my place to spare me of condemnation. He loved me first so that I could love him back. At the cross my sin was washed away with all my guilt and shame.

But if I want to truly seek Jesus, I have to settle in my heart who he is for me. In order to do that, I need to come to the tomb! It is not enough to come to the cross; I must also visit the tomb and see it empty. The resurrection is the seal of approval from the Father that Jesus is who he said he is. It is the proof that his teachings were not mere words into the wind. At the cross, I am forgiven. At the tomb, I am convinced. The call is there for me: "Come and see!"

I must come to the tomb because it is there that I am commissioned. The call to "Come and See" is followed by the command to "Go and Tell!" Once I am convinced of the reality that has taken place in my heart, I have the duty to proclaim it to the four winds. I cannot keep it inside. I must tell. I become a genuine witness of what took place at the cross after I come to the tomb and am convinced of the reality of the resurrection. A visit to the tomb strips the cross of its mere sentimentality and fills it with true fear and joy. Fear of an awesome God who orchestrated such a plan. Joy of the reality of my freedom from sin and condemnation. Hallelujah!

Father, take me to the tomb and convince me in mind and heart of the reality of the resurrection. Make me a true witness of Christ that I may proclaim the good news to all who need to hear.