Easter, Our hearts for the resurrection
Written by Senior pastor Ndayiragije-Misigaro Joel. March 28, 2024
Matthew 28:2–7 (NLT): "Suddenly there was a great earthquake! For an angel of the Lord came down from heaven, rolled aside the stone, and sat on it. His face shone like lightning, and his clothing was as white as snow. The guards shook with fear when they saw him, and they fell into a dead faint. Then the angel spoke to the women. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I know you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He isn’t here! He has risen from the dead, just as he said it would happen. Come, see where his body was lying. And now, go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and he is going ahead of you to Galilee. You will see him there. Remember what I have told you."
INTRO
Easter, our hearts for the resurrection means hope and renewal. It reminds us of the power of faith and the promise of new beginnings.
May we discover hope and rejuvenation in the promise of fresh starts that Easter brings? Let's rejoice in the victory of life over death with gratitude and joy.
May we discover happiness and optimism in the assurance of a fresh beginning. Let's rejoice in the victory of illumination over obscurity.
May we always cherish the hope and joy that Easter brings to our lives. Let's rejoice in the triumph over mortality and welcome the hope of fresh starts.
May we discover happiness and optimism in the assurance of fresh beginnings? Let's rejoice in the victory of illumination over obscurity.
If the tomb could speak, what would it reveal about the burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ after three days?
It would probably mention the extraordinary event that occurred within its walls—the incredible power and triumph of a divine victory over death. The tomb serves as a testament to the realisation of ancient prophecies and the unwavering faith held by all those who believe.
The tomb may speak softly of the moment when hope was renewed and death was overcome. It could capture the incredible experience of witnessing the immense power of love in action.
The tomb could have portrayed the somber atmosphere and silence that enveloped it, where Jesus' body rested until the radiant light and resurrection occurred on Easter morning. It could demonstrate the strength of divine love and the victory of hope over hopelessness. Perhaps the tomb would represent the gloom and hopelessness of Good Friday, then the immense joy and optimism of Easter Sunday. It could describe a remarkable change from darkness to light, representing the ultimate triumph over wrongdoing and mortality.
A. DISCUSS THE HISTORY OF THE TOMB AND ITS SIGNIFICANCE
within the framework of the community or culture it is a part of. Reflect on how the stories and memories held within the tomb can provide valuable insights into the lives and values of those who have passed away.
When one looks at the tomb, we tend to think it is the end of life, when, on the other hand, with faith and the teachings of Jesus Christ, we can see it as a gateway to eternal life.
The tomb acted as a powerful symbol, representing the shift from death to life. When Jesus was inside, the tomb experienced a newfound illumination, offering hope to those who had faith in Jesus Christ.
John 11:25–26 (NLT) Jesus told her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying. Everyone who lives in me and believes in me will never ever die. Do you believe this, Martha?”
Martha's belief in Jesus, the resurrection, and life were put to the ultimate test when her brother Lazarus passed away. However, she personally witnessed the incredible power of faith in Christ. The Bible highlights the everlasting life that followers can achieve through their belief in Jesus.
Even the followers of Jesus were filled with despair and overcome with fear; they found themselves in a state of uncertainty, unsure of their next steps. However, their unwavering belief in Christ gave them the resilience and bravery to persevere. Jesus had to strengthen their faith for the task ahead of them to spread the gospel of faith and salvation to the world only after His resurrection on the third day from the time of His appearance to them. Only then did they fully grasp the significance of their mission and the profoundness of their beliefs.
I can envision Mary Magdalene and her companions arriving at the tomb and experiencing everything they are told and witness from the angel of the Lord. Something within them begins to question their beliefs and spiritual perspective; what could this be? They seemed to have overlooked Jesus' predictions of his resurrection. Amidst the scornful remarks that echoed during the crucifixion, as documented in Mark 15:29–30, some taunted, saying, "If you can rebuild the temple in three days, then save yourself and come down from the cross!"
Currently, they are confronted with the truth of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. It is, after all, logical; he is not present among the deceased! He has been resurrected, just as he promised.
B. REFLECT ON THE LIVES OF THOSE BURIED THERE
Generally, the tomb is reserved for the interment of deceased loved ones; however, the mystery of God's presence and power in our lives lies in the fact that no one ever returns to open the tomb after burial to observe what is happening there.
"Suddenly there was a great earthquake! For an angel of the Lord came down from heaven, rolled aside the stone, and sat on it.".
This biblical event highlights the miraculous power of God and the fulfilment of His promises, showing that even death cannot contain His glory. We are reminded of the hope and victory that believers have in Christ, both in this life and for eternity.
That is why the earthquake and the angel rolling away the stone symbolise the triumph of life over death and the ultimate defeat of evil. It is a powerful reminder that God's plans are always greater than our own, and His power is unmatched in every circumstance.
Jesus was the firstborn of man and the firstborn of the dead, setting an example for believers to follow to attain eternal life. Through his resurrection, he showed that death is not the end but rather a transition to everlasting life for those who believe in him.
A close look at how the legacies of those who died and were buried in the tomb, continue to impact the present. Jesus' impact on the world continues to be felt today through his teachings and the lives of his followers, inspiring others to live a life of faith and love. The tomb serves as a reminder of the hope and promise of eternal life for those who believe in Christ, encouraging visitors to reflect on their own beliefs and relationship with God. Consider the lessons that can be learned from their experiences and how they can inspire us to live more meaningful lives.
Mark 15:46–47 (ESV): "And Joseph bought a linen shroud, and taking him down, wrapped him in the linen shroud, and laid him in a tomb that had been cut out of the rock. And he rolled a stone against the entrance of the tomb. Mary Magdalene and Mary, the mother of Joseph, saw where he was laid."
People who were dead and buried in the Bible serve as a testament to the enduring power of faith and the importance of living a life according to one's beliefs. By studying these stories, we can gain insight into how to navigate our challenges and trials with grace and resilience, ultimately deepening our spiritual journey.
Look at how Mary Magdalene and Mary, the mother of Joseph, who saw where he was laid, did not give up hope, even in the face of death. Their unwavering faith and devotion to Jesus serve as an inspiration for us to trust in something greater than ourselves, even in our darkest moments. They are those who, after deciding to go and anoint the body of Jesus, finally met an angel who told them that Jesus had risen from the dead. This encounter not only strengthened their faith but also gave them a renewed sense of purpose and hope in their grief.
C. CONSIDER HOW THE STORY OF HIS RESURRECTION CAN IMPACT OUR OWN LIVES
Jesus' death and resurrection are not only the victory of eternal life for believers, but they impact our daily lives as well. By reflecting on the faith and courage of those who encountered the risen Jesus, we can find strength and inspiration to face our own challenges with hope and trust in God's plan for us.
Luke 24:6-7 (NIV): "He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: ‘The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified, and on the third day be raised again?"
This is the importance of preserving the memories for future generations to learn from. Reflect on the connections we can draw between Jesus' experiences and our own, finding inspiration in His resilience and wisdom.
With all of that being considered, our hearts should be ready for the resurrection, for everything dead to start receiving life in Jesus' name.
As we embrace the message of hope and renewal that Easter brings, let us open our hearts to the possibility of new beginnings and transformation in our own lives. May the spirit of resurrection fill us with faith and courage to overcome any obstacles we may face, knowing that God's love and power are always at work within us.
D. CONCLUSION
Jesus demonstrated the remarkable ability to transform a death that was meant to bring shame into a triumphant display of glory. It is often said that true glory cannot be achieved without enduring suffering.
I can hear a familiar plea echoing within me, resonating in my heart: "Eloi Eloi Lamasabhactani." I am forgiven, and I am loved.
I can hear the celestial melodies resonating in my ear. It all occurred for your redemption. In Genesis 2:7, it is written that the breath of life was breathed into the nostril, and man became a living soul. Mark 15:37 "Jesus cried out loudly and took his final breath on the cross," and I witness the breath of life tearing the temple veil from bottom to top, granting everyone access to the throne of grace and mercy. At last, humanity has reestablished the sacred connection to the divine that sin had previously severed.
May you find salvation and deliverance from every dark cloud that is covering you with the light of God's love and forgiveness, as the darkness filled the earth for 3 hours (from six to three). Embrace the joy that Easter brings, and prepare to receive your miracle.
