by Herman Crawford

 

For some reason, the article for this Lenten devotion has been harder to write than previous ones. Not sure why…maybe too many other distractions. But as I have read various portions of Scripture dealing with the Easter story, one phrase in Matthew 28 sort of stood out.

 

The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you. (Matthew 28:5-7)

 

As I read this, I thought “Great Commission.” Jesus has just risen from the dead and emerged from the tomb. He is no longer there! The first words from the angel at the tomb were, “He is not here; he has risen…go quickly and tell his disciples.” (Matthew 28:6-7) And then Jesus met his disciples in Galilee and told them further down in this chapter, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations.” (Matthew 28:19)

 

Are you starting to get the picture? Angels tell the ladies at the tomb to go and tell that Christ is risen. Jesus shows the disciples that he is risen and tells them to go and make disciples. Tell the world that He is risen.

 

Have you done your part? As a disciple of Jesus, have you told “the world” that He has risen and what that has meant for you as a follower? Use this Easter season to recommit to telling the world about the risen Savior.

Father God, give us a bold spirit through your Holy Spirit that we may speak of your risen Son and how that new life in Him has brought new life to us. Bless our Church this Easter season.Give us the boldness to “go”. Amen.