Jesus told his disciples on at least three occasions in Scripture,
“The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified, and on the third day be raised again.” Luke 24:7
Somehow when it actually happened, they still couldn’t wrap their heads around the idea. Or, more accurately, they could not get the idea into their heads.
That third day after Jesus’ burial, the women went to the empty tomb, saw the angel in white, and heard his words.
“Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not hear; he has risen!” Matthew 28:6
The women ran to tell the disciples the good news. While the men did not believe the women. Peter and John did go to see the tomb and found it empty, but,
They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead. John 20:9
Later, Mary Magdalene actually saw the Lord and came with the good news, yet the disciples did not believe.
That evening, the two who had left to go to Emmaus came back to give their exciting news of how they had talked with Jesus and heard all the ways he had fulfilled Scripture.
The two continued talking with their amazing account, but still, the disciples doubted. Just then, Jesus himself stood among them.
They were startled and frightened thinking they saw a ghost. Jesus said, “Why are you troubled, and why do doubts arise in your minds? Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself! Touch me and see.” Luke 24:38-39
Let’s put these doubts on hold and go back to think about the arrest in the garden. The Temple guard and the religious leaders had arrested Jesus.
Then all the disciples deserted him and fled. Matthew 26:56
Well, we can account for three of them. Judas had hung himself. Peter did follow, at least to the campfire outside the house of Caiaphas, but ended up denying that he knew Jesus three times. We know that John was at the cross with Mary, Jesus’ mother, because Jesus spoke to them from the cross.
That leaves nine unaccounted for and maybe ten if Peter went back with the others. Where did they go? Back to the upper room? Somewhere to feel safe. After all, the rulers might come after them next!
When Jesus came walking in through the locked door, they were “startled and frightened.” In spite of their disbelief, Jesus offered what they needed most.
“Peace be with you.” Luke 24:36
He opened their minds so they could understand the Scripture.
This, my friends, is what he does for us as well when we feel afraid or confused. When we open ourselves to him, he brings peace and understanding. Whatever you’re going through this day, whatever fears you face, lay them at his feet. He wants to bring peace into your life.
So, as we celebrate the joy of the resurrection this week, let us also celebrate the peace that comes to us, knowing that he has overcome the sin of this world. He is risen indeed!
~ Joyce ~