Empty

3-28-2014           Matthew 28:1-10

S.            1 In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre. 2 And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it. 3 His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow: 4 And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men. 5 And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. 6 He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. 7 And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you. 8 And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word. 9 And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him. 10 Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me.

O.           Two women watched as Jesus died and was buried, at the end of the Sabbath they returned to the grave in hope of rendering some appropriate burial preparations. The tomb was declared empty by an Angel and the ladies were instructed to go and tell the disciples, “For he is risen, as he said”. As they were on their way they meet Jesus, alive!

A.           Jesus is alive! I too have seen him. Not with my eyes but with my heart. I believe every word in the Bible. I believe through faith that Jesus gave his life on the cross for my sin. I believe that he came out of the tomb, early on Sunday morning, alive, full of power and victory and he did it all to redeem my soul. I will shout, sing, dance, cry and declare in any way I can this wonderful message of love. I notice in these verses that the Angel calls the followers of Jesus, disciples, but Jesus calls them, “my brethren”. I believe!

P.            Father; I know that Jesus is alive. I know that he suffered the cross to redeem my soul and all souls that will come and ask and believe. I know that it was the ultimate act of Love, yours and his, towards your rebellious creation. I have nothing of value to give. I give you my life. I am your servant, your adopted son. Amen.