Feb. 14

Matthew 28

As we close the book of Matthew we see Old Testament prophecies fulfilled which present Jesus' credentials for being not only King of the Jews, but  King of the world.  This goes far beyond any military or political leadership role.  Jesus certainly didn't need the stone to be moved for Him leave the tomb, I believe the stone was moved so that like Mary, we could all look inside and see the fulfillment of the promise. So let's take a moment and "look" inside the empty tomb.  When the angel spoke to Mary he gave four messages.  First, he said not to be afraid. The reality of the empty tomb and resurrection brings joy and hope. The angel then said "he is not here".  Our God is not dead. He lives inside our hearts.  After that, the angel then invited the women to "come and see".  The invitation to look inside the empty tomb is still open to anyone who wants to take a look and check the evidence themselves.  Finally, the angel told the women to "go quickly and tell".  Jesus, who has been given all authority in heaven and earth, gave His disciples a command to "go" (v.19).  The angel repeated the command, and now we, as believers, are commissioned to go quickly and tell anyone who wants to take a look inside the empty tomb to see the evidence of our risen King.  Jesus' resurrection is the foundation and key to our faith. He promised He would raise Himself from the dead and He did.  His resurrection proves He is not a false prophet and is the living Christ, ruler of God's eternal kingdom.  He shows us that death is not the end for us, it is the beginning of eternity with God.  The resurrection shows us that the same power that rose Jesus from the grave is available to us to bring our spiritually dead bones back to life. Jesus has overcome all evil and can rule in the heart of every person, but so many struggle to receive this truth.  In our loyalty to our King, we must pray without ceasing for those who do not know Him or have listened to the voice of the world and walked away. I know who I'm praying for and I avail myself to come alongside anyone who needs someone to stand in agreement with them as they pray for the lost.

Randi