Word for the day by Christian Education Forum
Jesus Christ, the One Who Defeated Death and Ressurrected
John 20:1-18
Jesus said, “Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.” (v.17)
Christ Has Risen! Indeed He Has Risen!
When we look at the greatest achievement of the world, the resurrection of our Lord Jesus, we must first understand the story of the empty tomb. Mary Magdalene went to the tomb where Jesus laid in the early morning hours, when the world was still covered in darkness. She couldn't believe what she discovered inside, the tomb was empty and the stone was rolled away. Her mind racing with uncertainty, she raced to notify the disciples while her heart was filled with confusion and terror.
With fear and excitement in their hearts, Peter and the other disciple went to the tomb. What they found proved Mary's story correct, the tomb was, in fact, empty.
Mary, however, stayed by the tomb and continued to cry in sadness despite the uncertainty and danger. And it was at this intense period of bereavement that she saw the rising Christ. As he said her name, "Mary," everything changed with that one word. The mist of confusion parted, revealing to Mary her dear Teacher was alive and triumphant over death.
In this encounter, we witness the transformative power of Christ’s resurrection. Mary’s grief turned to joy, her sorrow to exultation, as she beheld the living Christ standing before her. And just as Christ called Mary by name, so too does he call each and everyone of us and invites us into a personal relationship with him, to experience the reality of his resurrection power in our lives.
Like Mary, we may face moments of darkness, confusion, and despair. We may fight battles of doubt and fear, uncertain of what the future holds. But in the midst of our darkest moments, Christ is there, ready to speak our names, to call us into a new life and renewed hope.
May we keep our focus on the risen Christ as we make our way through this Lenten season and get closer to celebrating Easter. May us be alert to his call with eager spirits and open hearts, listening for his voice . And may we, like Mary, declare, "I have seen the Lord!" with confidence and delight! May the Lord be with each of us both now and forevermore,
Amen.
When we look at the greatest achievement of the world, the resurrection of our Lord Jesus, we must first understand the story of the empty tomb. Mary Magdalene went to the tomb where Jesus laid in the early morning hours, when the world was still covered in darkness. She couldn't believe what she discovered inside, the tomb was empty and the stone was rolled away. Her mind racing with uncertainty, she raced to notify the disciples while her heart was filled with confusion and terror.
With fear and excitement in their hearts, Peter and the other disciple went to the tomb. What they found proved Mary's story correct, the tomb was, in fact, empty.
Mary, however, stayed by the tomb and continued to cry in sadness despite the uncertainty and danger. And it was at this intense period of bereavement that she saw the rising Christ. As he said her name, "Mary," everything changed with that one word. The mist of confusion parted, revealing to Mary her dear Teacher was alive and triumphant over death.
In this encounter, we witness the transformative power of Christ’s resurrection. Mary’s grief turned to joy, her sorrow to exultation, as she beheld the living Christ standing before her. And just as Christ called Mary by name, so too does he call each and everyone of us and invites us into a personal relationship with him, to experience the reality of his resurrection power in our lives.
Like Mary, we may face moments of darkness, confusion, and despair. We may fight battles of doubt and fear, uncertain of what the future holds. But in the midst of our darkest moments, Christ is there, ready to speak our names, to call us into a new life and renewed hope.
May we keep our focus on the risen Christ as we make our way through this Lenten season and get closer to celebrating Easter. May us be alert to his call with eager spirits and open hearts, listening for his voice . And may we, like Mary, declare, "I have seen the Lord!" with confidence and delight! May the Lord be with each of us both now and forevermore,
Amen.
Prayer
Gracious Lord, as we conclude this blessed Lenten season, may we continue to understand your unfailing love and compassion in our daily lives. It’s through you Lord that we receive every blessing in our lives. May we continue to celebrate your resurrection throughout our lives with our friends and family. In The Name of Our Risen Lord Jesus Christ, Amen!
Thought for the Day
“The resurrection gives my life meaning and direction and the opportunity to start over no matter what my circumstances”
Robin Varughese
Epiphany Mar Thoma Church
Epiphany Mar Thoma Church