He is not here ...

Matthew 28:1-10
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.

What a long horrible weekend it had been for the disciples of Jesus. The joy of spending time with Him and learning from Him had quickly come to an end. They had stood by the cross, heard the terrible things being said about their Lord and watched as He died, suffering like no one should ever suffer. The tears finally dried, they traveled to the tomb to prepare the body of Jesus (Mark 16:1).

Earlier in the morning a great earthquake had shook the earth and an angel came down and rolled the stone off the opening at the garden tomb. The angel's face was brighter than anything on earth. The guards of the tomb were scared stiff and could not move, appearing as dead. Imagine how you would be if an angel suddenly appeared beside you.

Mary Magdalene and Mary were frightened as they inched closer to the tomb. The angel spoke and beckoned them to come near, “Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. Go and tell His disciples.”

“Fear not … He is not here …Go tell His disciples.” They could not believe the words they just heard. They ran for joy, hardly believing their legs could carry them. As they were running to tell the disciples, a man met them. Not just any man but Jesus. The joy overwhelmed them as they fell on the ground to worship Him. Praising and thanking God for His unspeakable gift. (II Cor 9:15)

Today as you enjoy Easter dinner remember what happened on this day two thousand and ten years ago. It is a special gift from GOD to you. Have you accepted this precious gift?

Have a blessed day,
Donna