As the sun began to rise on that first Easter morning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary approached the tomb, unaware of the incredible event about to unfold. What they discover will change the world forever.
The Reading: Matthew 28
World English Bible1 Now after the Sabbath, as it began to dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to see the tomb.
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2 Behold, there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord descended from the sky, and came and rolled away the stone from the door, and sat on it.
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3 His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow.
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4 For fear of him, the guards shook, and became like dead men.
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5 The angel answered the women, “Don’t be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus, who has been crucified.
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6 He is not here, for he has risen, just like he said. Come, see the place where the Lord was lying.
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7 Go quickly and tell his disciples, ‘He has risen from the dead, and behold, he goes before you into Galilee; there you will see him.’ Behold, I have told you.”
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8 They departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to bring his disciples word.
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9 As they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, “Rejoice!” They came and took hold of his feet, and worshiped him.
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10 Then Jesus said to them, “Don’t be afraid. Go tell my brothers that they should go into Galilee, and there they will see me.”
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11 Now while they were going, behold, some of the guards came into the city, and told the chief priests all the things that had happened.
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12 When they were assembled with the elders, and had taken counsel, they gave a large amount of silver to the soldiers,
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13 saying, “Say that his disciples came by night, and stole him away while we slept.
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14 If this comes to the governor’s ears, we will persuade him and make you free of worry.”
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15 So they took the money and did as they were told. This saying was spread abroad among the Jews, and continues until today.
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16 But the eleven disciples went into Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had sent them.
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17 When they saw him, they bowed down to him, but some doubted.
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18 Jesus came to them and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth.
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19 Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
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20 teaching them to observe all things that I commanded you. Behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.
What This Chapter Is Really Saying
The Tomb and the Angel
After the Sabbath, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary visit Jesus' tomb, filled with sadness and uncertainty. Suddenly, there's a dramatic earthquake! An angel appears, dazzling like lightning, and rolls away the heavy stone from the tomb's entrance. The guards, terrified by this celestial being, freeze in fear.
The Good News
The angel reassures the women, telling them not to be afraid. He informs them that Jesus, who had been crucified, has risen from the dead, just as He promised. The angel invites them to check the empty tomb and then gives them an important task: to tell the disciples that Jesus will meet them in Galilee.
A Divine Encounter
Excited yet fearful, the women rush away to share the incredible news. On their way, they encounter the resurrected Jesus, who greets them with a joyful, "Rejoice!" Overwhelmed, they worship Him, clinging to His feet. Jesus encourages them not to fear and reminds them once again to tell His brothers to head to Galilee.
The Guards' Report
Meanwhile, the guards report to the chief priests about everything that happened. The priests, worried about the implications of the resurrection, bribe the guards to spread a false story - that Jesus' disciples stole His body while they slept.
The Great Commission
Later, the eleven disciples gather in Galilee. Some doubt, but Jesus approaches them confidently. He declares that all authority in heaven and earth has been granted to Him and commissions them to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to follow His teachings. He promises to always be with them, even until the end of time.
Why It Matters
The Power of Resurrection
Matthew 28 offers a powerful reminder of hope and renewal. Jesus' resurrection is not just an event; it symbolizes the victory over death and the promise of eternal life. This message is as relevant today as it was then, encouraging us to live with purpose and faith.
Sharing the Good News
Just as the women were tasked with sharing the resurrection story, we too are called to share the joy and hope found in Jesus. Our lives can be a testament to His love and power, impacting those around us.
Finding Community
In a world where many feel lost, discovering community through faith is essential. As you explore your spiritual journey, find a church near you where you can connect, learn, and grow with others who share your values and beliefs.
Coming Up Next: Mark 1
As we transition to the next part of our journey in Mark 1, get ready to meet a powerful voice crying out in the wilderness. Who is this figure, and what does he have to say about the one who comes after him? You won't want to miss it!