It was early in the morning just before dawn as the women woke from their restless sleep. There is no doubt in my mind that the women who went to the tomb early in the morning did so because sleeping was out of the question. Jesus had died, and they were going to do the last thing they could do for him by announcing Him with spices. But today would be different. Today would be a day that changed history forever. Today would be a day that would change the course of so many lives that today still believe that Christ, the Son of God, was dead, buried, and raised from the grave. This resurrection proved Jesus to be the Son of God (Romans 1:4).
That is our hope. That is our hope.
With all going on that first Easter Sunday, I am always intrigued by the astonishment of the guards. Can’t you see it? They stood guard carefully in front of the tomb, not allowing anyone to get close. Their job was to ensure the legitimacy of the sealed tomb. Nothing went in, and nothing came out. So when the earthquake came, and the angel rolled the tomb away, they were helpless to exercise any authority or strength to stop it. Even if they tried, nothing.
Do you believe today? Alfred Ackley wrote a great song of celebration. One of my favorites. Would you read it slowly? This is my song of celebration today. Would you believe?
I serve a risen Savior, He’s in the world today
I know that He is living, whatever men may say
I see His hand of mercy, I hear His voice of cheer
And just the time I need Him, He’s always near
In all the world around me, I see His loving care
And though my heart grows weary, I never will despair
I know that He is leading, through all the stormy blast
The day of His appearing will come at last
Rejoice, rejoice, O Christian Lift up your voice and sing
Eternal hallelujahs to Jesus Christ, the King
The Hope of all who seek Him, the Help of all who find
None other is so loving, so good and kind
He lives, He lives, Christ Jesus lives today
He walks with me and talks with me
Along life’s narrow way
He lives, He lives, Salvation to impart
You ask me how I know He lives?
He lives within my heart.
Does He live within your heart today?