He Is Not Here...He Is Risen!

Matthew 28:2-6 New International Version (NIV)

2 There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. 3 His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. 4 The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men. 5 The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.

Tuesday - April 6

There are two groups of people in this passage: the two Mary’s and the guards who were supposed to keep everyone away from the tomb. Apparently they cannot stop an “angel of the Lord” who causes earthquakes and shines like lightning! But then the angel speaks because that is what angels do. The Greek word “angellos” means messenger, but the message is only for one group: the women. He says, “Do not be afraid.” That is God’s message for you, too! Do not be afraid! God is on your side! Jesus died on the cross to remove your Sin. Nothing can keep you apart from God and His kingdom. We never need to be paralyzed with fear because God has chosen us and gives us His grace, mercy and love. Hallelujah! He is risen!