Saturday, 11 April 2020 John 20:1-31
But these have been written in order that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through your faith in him you may have life. -John 20:31[GNT]
This portion of Scripture depicts the brave attempt of a woman who went to the tomb where Jesus was buried, during the early hours of the day while it was still dark. It is not normal even for men to visit any tomb in the dark. Being a lady Mary Magdalene knew very well that this move might invite public accusations. But still, Mary pressed on because of her ardent love for the Lord Jesus. She had received forgiveness through grace. And now it is appropriate for her to reciprocate the love and passion toward her Lord. She is an example of a thankful life. She was miraculously healed by Jesus when he drove seven demons out of her (Luke 8:2). This freedom prompted her to stand under Christ’s Cross even when all disciples except John, were hiding in fear. She was more eager to believe and obey rather than to doubt and question. Jesus honored her faith by entrusting her with the first message of resurrection. The Resurrection of Jesus is the key factor in the Christian faith. As Christ rose from the dead as He had foretold, Jesus is able to fulfil all that He promised. His resurrection proves that death is not the end and we have a life after death and the resurrection power is available for all who believe, to bring our spiritual deadness back to life. Ephesians 1:18-20 is a prayer for us: “…the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead…” It’s a time to reflect on our lives too- each of us who is saved knows how much we were forgiven. How are we expressing our gratitude for the forgiveness and grace we enjoy today? Luke 12: 48 says “For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more.” Towards the end of this chapter, we see a doubting Thomas who wasn’t willing to believe until he saw the resurrected Jesus and touch Him. But he didn’t stay in his doubt instead he allowed Jesus to bring him to belief and he exclaimed: “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28) Later he served the Lord as the other disciples did. In Vs.16 we see Jesus calling Mary by her name. Today too Jesus calls your name and is knocking at the door of your heart. Will you allow Him to enter? Will you like Mary, regard Him as your Lord and share the good news of resurrection and grace with others?
Thought for the Day:
“Outside of the cross of Jesus Christ, there is no hope in this world. That cross and resurrection at the core of the Gospel is the only hope for humanity. Wherever you go, ask God for wisdom on how to get that Gospel in, even in the toughest situations of life.” -Ravi Zacharias
Listen: ‘Sing Hallelujah to the Lord'