Christianity rests on an extraordinary event: the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Without the resurrection, the cross would have been only the tragic end of a good man. With the resurrection, it becomes God’s victory over sin and death.
The empty tomb
Early on the first day of the week, some women came to the tomb to anoint Jesus’ body. Instead of a body, they found an angel who told them: “He is not here: for he is risen, as he said.” (Matthew 28:6). Jesus had kept His promise. The disciples’ grief turned into amazement, and then into joy.
In the days that followed, Jesus appeared to His disciples several times, ate with them and spoke with them. Frightened and discouraged people became courageous witnesses, ready to tell the whole world what they had seen.
The firstfruits
The apostle Paul explains the meaning of the resurrection: “But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept.” (1 Corinthians 15:20). The firstfruits were the first part of the harvest, the guarantee that the rest would follow. Jesus’ resurrection guarantees that those who died in faith will also rise.
That is why Paul can face death with courage: “O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?” (1 Corinthians 15:55). Death has been defeated by the One who came out of the tomb alive.
The faith of those who have not seen
Thomas, one of the disciples, could not believe until he saw Jesus. When they met, Jesus told him: “Blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.” (John 20:29). These words are for us, who know Jesus through the witness of Scripture and through His work in our lives.
The resurrection is not only a fact of the past, but a power for the present. The same God who raised Jesus can bring new life to wounded families, tired hearts and situations that seem hopeless.
For reflection
How does the resurrection of Jesus change the way you see life and death? Is there a situation in your life that seems hopeless and needs the power of the resurrection? Bring it to God in prayer.
Bible verses are quoted from the King James Version.