Matthew 28:5-7
As we return to our journey through Matthew’s Gospel, find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. As you breathe in, say the name of Jesus and become aware of his presence with you. As you breathe out, open your mind and heart to receive whatever Jesus has for you today.
For context, today’s passage overlaps with yesterday’s reading. Read Matthew 28:5-7 imagining the women’s reactions to the angelic message.
Matthew’s Gospel begins with an announcement about Jesus’ miraculous conception delivered by an angel to Joseph in a dream. And now here at the tomb where Jesus’ lifeless body was laid just over a day ago, another angel makes an equally astonishing announcement: “He is risen…”
The two Marys, though understandably frightened at the sight of the other-worldly being, are not overcome by fear or shock. They seem to have been anticipating that something would happen, and now they remain coherent enough to hear and understand that Jesus has indeed risen from the dead “just as he said would happen.”
Stop to consider whether there are promises of Jesus that you are waiting to see fulfilled. Take some time to ponder your level of anticipation about Jesus’ promises. Consider asking Jesus to point out anything that is keeping you from comprehending what Jesus might already be doing to fulfill his promises.
Read Matthew 28:5-7 again paying special attention to the angel’s instructions to the two Marys.
A poet once said that some things must be believed to be seen, and long before those words were written the author of Hebrews said that faith is believing what is unseen (Hebrews 11:1). Because these two followers of Jesus believed, they did not run away with the other disciples, nor did they faint in terror like the guards. The two Marys believed and they now see.
They see the empty tomb where Jesus’ lifeless body was, and soon they will see him alive and well in Galilee. These two disciples, who never wavered in their belief, not only have the joy of seeing, they are the first people chosen to share the Good News that he is alive.
For the last moments of this time of meditation, sit in silence and consider the words of the angel. Imagine Jesus saying these words to you: “Remember what I have told you…”
What might Jesus be prompting you to do or do differently today?
Will you?
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