The body of Jesus was hastily prepared for burial by Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus (John 19:38-41). The women came to properly complete the hurried job performed immediately after Jesus’ death.
The angelic announcement of the resurrection.
Luke makes clear that Jesus is the one in control. “Remember how he told you . . .” the angels said. But Luke doesn’t focus on how unsettling it is to follow someone who will radically change our life.
Rather, Luke aims to inspire awe in us for Jesus. Even though the odds seemed stacked against him, it turns out that everyone has played right into Jesus’ plan.
The resurrection of Jesus is the most awe-inspiring event in the history of the world. It’s not just that Jesus came back from the dead; Elisha had raised a dead boy to life, and Jesus himself had raised several people.
The unique thing about Jesus’ resurrection is that it is permanent—Jesus is still alive! Jesus overcame death forever!
Because of Jesus, death no longer has the finality it once had. Jesus demonstrated his power over death so that we can have real hope that he will conquer our death as well. Like Jesus, many of his followers will die. But, because of Jesus, all who follow him will one day be raised back to life.
Prayer
Dear Jesus, we praise you for taking control of this world. The world can be cruel sometimes, and life is fragile. But you are in control of our life, Lord, and you have defeated death. Amen.
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