Lion + LambEsimerkki

Prayer: Jesus You are victorious!  You have overcome everything through Your death on the cross!  Though there are many things in my life to worry about or be confused over, help me celebrate this great day!  You overcame death and the grave!  

The Lion Roars 

Every great movie ends in a great victory!  In the Lion King, Simba comes back to the Pride-Lands.  In the Lord of the Rings, Frodo throws the ring into Mount Doom.  We want the hero to win! We long for a bright ray of hope!  We want to see hope and peace restored after pain and tragedy.  Jesus’ resurrection points to the truth that death is real but not final. Life can be painful, but pain is not permanent. Friday was dark, but Sunday arrived in glorious light.  Matthew 28:3 says Jesus’ “appearance was like lightning!” He dressed up for the occasion! No more hiding behind the rags of a common man, His true colors shine bright! The glorious God-man, Jesus Christ rose from the dead! He lives, so we also can live! His resurrection demonstrates His power over death and His forgiveness of sins. Jesus fully restores Hope and Peace!  No greater way, no greater day! The Lion of Judah roars victoriously!

Look in the Word: 

1. Look at Matthew 28:1-4.  What surprises you about Jesus’ resurrection?
2. Why do the disciples fear?  Why does Jesus constantly say, “do not be afraid?”

What’s Next? 

1. Jesus comforts His disciples through this section.  How does knowing that Jesus rose bring comfort to you?
2. The resurrection shows that Jesus restores hope and peace with God!  What can you do today to encourage someone with this truth?
3. Go Celebrate!