Meditation

Read Matthew 28:1-10 —Matthew 28:18 (KJV)

Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.

All Jesus’ promises were forgotten as his disciples wept through the darkness of sorrow, doubt and fear after the crucifixion of their friend and teacher.

But at sunrise, on the first day of the week, everything changed. The women got up and walked to the tomb. The angel rolled away the stone. The light of the sunrise revealed the empty tomb and the women ran to share the news of their risen savior. In doing so, they met Jesus.

With the sunrise came Jesus’ voice: “Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me.” (Matt. 28:10). When Jesus arrived, he did not scold the disciples for doubting him. Instead, Jesus reminded them that he is the source of all power.

Sunrise brought the dawning of redemption that day. This redemption continues to be our hope today when we trudge through the dark and lonely valleys of pain and sorrow in our lives. The sunrise my bring healing for a broken marriage or for a body broken with disease. God, who rolled away the stone from the vacant tomb that morning long ago, has the power to make all things new.

Prayer—Dear God, when we struggle through pain and sorrow, help us to have hope and faith that the sun will rise. Amen.

Thought for the Day—This Easter season, I can look forward to the dawn of redemption.

Sharon Finch O’Maley (Texas)