The Invitation - Day 45

The women were terrified and bowed with their faces to the ground. Then the men asked, “Why are you looking among the dead for someone who is alive? 6 He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead! Remember what he told you back in Galilee,

As we well remember, people are afraid whenever a messenger from God shows up on the scene. The women this day were no different. Some would say that the word “terrified” really should be translated as “reverential awe,” but perhaps the word “terrified” captures their emotions much better. When we come in contact with those who make their home in heaven, we are usually surprised and terrified as well.

The women bowed their faces to the ground, and some translations say they fell to the ground. Either way, they tried to show respect to these men in dazzling robes. What position do you find yourself in when you are confronted with the presence of God?

The men asked the women, “Why are you looking for the living amongst the dead?” Which seems like almost a sarcastic question. Where else would they have gone? They were looking to take care of the body of the one that they had loved and had died.

However, this reminded them of what Jesus said about rebuilding the temple in 3 days. The dazzling men took Jesus at his word that he would be back. We have a more challenging time believing that what Jesus said could be true. Perhaps because we do not live in the constant presence of Jesus as those who make a home in heaven had for so many years. Our experience of the presence of God is much slighter but no less powerful when we recognize it.

What would it be like to take Jesus's word and live accordingly? Would it change how we interact with one another, God, and ourselves? Would we find a way to trust more completely, believe more firmly, and walk forward in faith, trusting totally in the words of Jesus?

Let's try it! Let's try to live as if we are in the presence of Christ every moment, and we can trust in the words that he says to us daily. I want to experience the good news on a different level than I ever have before. I want to learn to trust completely and without hesitation.

1. Would you like that as well? 
2. Would you join me on this journey to trust in the words and life of Jesus more profoundly? 
3. What would that change in your life each day?