He Meets Us On Monday

“The angel spoke to the women: ‘There is nothing to fear here. I know you’re looking for Jesus, the One they nailed to the cross. He is not here. He was raised, just as he said. Come and look at the place where he was placed. Now, get on your way quickly and tell his disciples, ‘He is risen from the dead. He is going on ahead of you to Galilee. You will see him there.’ That’s the message.’ The women, deep in wonder and full of joy, lost no time in leaving the tomb. They ran to tell the disciples. Then Jesus met them, stopping them in their tracks. ‘Good morning!’ he said. They fell to their knees, embraced his feet, and worshiped him. Jesus said, ‘You’re holding on to me for dear life! Don’t be frightened. Go tell my brothers that they are to go to Galilee, and that I’ll meet them there.’ ” (Matthew 28:5-10, emphasis added)

“[I]f the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.” (Romans 8:11)

So, now what? Now that we’ve celebrated the incredible gift of new life, forgiveness, hope, joy and peace secured for us through the glorious resurrection of Christ, what difference will it make? How will it affect our work, our relationships, our use of the time, talent and treasure entrusted to us? Will Sunday’s stirring remembrance remain with us all week? Will we take to heart the words of Jesus to the women at the tomb, “I’ll meet them there,” and his promise to the disciples recorded a few verses later, “Lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20)? Will we go forth from Easter trusting in the truth of Romans 8:11 that by the Holy Spirit, the Lord in fact dwells in, and breathes life into, all who believe and follow after Him?

Gracious God and risen Lord, we celebrate all that you accomplished on our behalf through the Resurrection. As we continue to praise and honor you far beyond Easter, we thank you that you are faithful to meet us where we are, to fill us with your strength, and to lead us in your way. Amen.