What Do You Do?

Luke 24:11-15 “But they did not believe the women, because their words seemed to them like nonsense.  Peter, however, got up and ran to the tomb. Bending over, he saw the strips of linen lying by themselves, and he went away, wondering to himself what had happened. Now that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem. They were talking with each other about everything that had happened. As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them”

Think

What would you do to start a revolution, to prove your unmatched power, to demonstrate your resurrection from the dead? These questions echo through the ages, challenging us to consider the profound implications of belief and faith. In the final verses of Luke, the author wrestles with these very questions, seeking to convince us of the reality of Jesus' resurrection and his divine identity. Yet, in the theological complexities, Luke chooses simplicity, grounding his narrative in irrefutable facts that speak volumes.

First, consider the women. In a society where their testimony held little legal weight, Luke boldly places them as the first witnesses to the empty tomb. This isn't a narrative flourish; it's a historical reality that underscores the authenticity of the events. The presence of women in the story isn't for dramatic effect, but a testament to the truth they bore witness to, disrupting societal norms to convey a profound message.

Then there's the walk – a poignant moment as Jesus joins two disciples on the road to Emmaus. The mundane act of walking and talking becomes a divine encounter as Jesus expounds on the Scriptures, igniting their hearts with understanding. This encounter isn't about grand gestures, but about the intimate weaving of everyday moments with profound truths, reminding us that God meets us in the ordinary.

Next, consider Jesus' first words after his resurrection: "Peace be with you." These words, uttered to trembling, doubtful disciples, resonate with a calming authority. Jesus doesn't rush to perform miracles, but invites them to touch him, to partake in a meal, to experience his tangible presence. It's a reaffirmation that, in resurrection, he remains steadfastly human, bridging the gap between the divine and the earthly.

Jesus' resurrection isn't just a historical event, but a transformative reality. It shapes our perspective on life, saturating even the average with divine significance. Let's echo the excitement of those women at the tomb, run with Peter's eagerness, and walk intimately with our God. Let's dive into his Word, break bread with friends, and find divine meaning in the seemingly ordinary. For in the resurrection of Jesus, everything changes. Even the simplest moments become sacred.

Apply

The women who witnessed the resurrection were filled with such excitement that they couldn't help but share the news of the empty tomb. However, they also shared how Jesus had transformed their lives. Who are you sharing your transformed life with today?

Pray

Lord, I am incredibly grateful for your love and mercy shown on the cross and through your resurrection. May I, like the women and disciples, be filled with excitement and joy as I share the good news of Christ's resurrection and how he has changed my life. Help me to recognize opportunities to share my faith journey with others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.