It wasn't an earthquake that moved the huge stone away from the door of Jesus' tomb. God did it through an angel and He didn't do it to release Jesus. He was already gone! The stone was removed to reveal to all who would come that morning that resurrection history had been made.
The disciples arrived and each had their perception of what had transpired: Where was his body...all of them astounded, they wondered what they were looking at...had thieves or vandals done this...? They probably all hesitated to believe for their various reasons: fear, guilt because of betrayal and more.
I'm sure we're no different than them. Considering the Resurrrection and the powerful implications and message of Easter, we hesitate to fully embrace it...maybe because of shame...being all too conscious of our own weakness and failures or even sheer skepticism that can come to us, brought on by life's many disappointments.
But the empty tomb strongly declares that if death has been conquered, there is nothing that can ultimately defeat you! Whatever looms over you, whatever relentless voices may be saying, inspite of how daunting your circumstances may be, you can take your stand at the door of an empty tomb behind you. You can emerge and declare with confidence, that "by the resurrection power of Jesus Christ, nothing, not even death in all its forms, can ever defeat me."
If the same spirit that raised Christ from the dead dwells in you, then God, who raised Christ Jesus from the dead, will bring His life and power into every part of your present experience, through His indwelling Spirit. (Romans 8:11 , paraphrased)
Adapted....
May the "much more" of His resurrection life gloriously renew and equip you for all that comes, so that he will indeed be seen as "...your glory and the lifter of your head."
Alive, and well,
Mitch
