More Than Just a Story - the Book of JohnNäide

“Having said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing…” This is what our entire faith stands upon. If Jesus only suffered, was crucified, and died, then he is just an innocent man who died a criminal’s death. But because three days later, he rose from the dead and is alive again, we know that He is God! Sin and death could not hold Him! He conquered them once and for all! Romans 6:9 says, “We know that Christ, being raised from the dead, will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him.” And praise God that this is true for Jesus, because that means it is also true for everyone who chooses Him. Romans 6:5 says, “For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his.”

This is the best news ever to have been reported. And what’s more, Jesus wants to share this good news with all of us because of the great love He has for us. When he appeared to Mary, after she realized it was Him, she embraced Him. In that moment, Jesus says to her, “Do not cling to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to my brothers and say to them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’” Jesus had accomplished all that He set out to do on the earth at that time and was ready to return to the Father, to perfection, to the throne. And yet, he delays His return further just to be with His people here on earth a little longer. He loves them. He loves us. With a love so great as this, how can we not respond?

Reflection Questions:

How often do I take time to reflect on Christ’s death and resurrection and what that means for humanity?

Today, how can I respond to God’s immense love for me?