Easter ReflectionsSample

The chief priests and the Pharisees took counsel on putting Jesus to death. They employed Judas to betray him, sent soldiers to take him, set false witnesses against him, and eventually persuaded the people to prefer Barabbas to him. They got him condemned to death and followed him to the cross, where they mocked him. Still, like the troubled sea, they were restless and uneasy, for though he was dead, they feared he might rise again. So they set guards to watch over the grave.

But Christ's resurrection was not dependent on a man or anything anyone could do, but on God alone. Matthew accounts for what happens after the resurrection to counter the rumour that the disciples stole Jesus' body from the tomb (Matthew 28:11-15).

Stories abound that attempt to explain away the resurrection of Christ. One argues that Jesus did not die from the severe wounds inflicted upon him; he only fainted as a result of exhaustion. The disciples, therefore, saw only a revived or resuscitated Christ. When he was placed in the tomb, he was still alive, and the disciples, mistaking him for dead, buried Him alive. After several hours, he revived in the coolness of the tomb, arose, and departed.

There are several other similar versions. Have you had any reasons why you should not believe in Christ? Proponents of such theories fear what the resurrection of Jesus would mean for them and demand of them. They ignore historical facts both out of blindness and out of a persistence in evil. Unfortunately, we cannot run away from our deep longing for a saviour. Have you been hiding from God and finding excuses why you cannot allow him to rule your life? You cannot escape from him, for even if you successfully reject his affection now, you will eventually meet him at the judgment seat. During this season of Easter, remember that the only way out of eternal damnation is repentance. No amount of excuses will save your soul.

Prayer:

Dear Lord, thank you for saving me. Please help me stay steadfast in my faith as I await your return. In Jesus' name, Amen.