The Invitation - Day 48

But the story sounded like nonsense to the men, so they didn’t believe it. 12 However, Peter jumped up and ran to the tomb to look. Stooping, he peered in and saw the empty linen wrappings; then, he went home again, wondering what had happened.

Well, that was the outcome that was to be expected. This story is sometimes hard to believe, mainly until Jesus shows up to confirm the narrative in our lives. The disciples struggled to understand it, but they couldn't be convinced otherwise when Jesus showed up later in the story.

They were so convinced that each of them kept the truth of the resurrection on the tip of their tongues until they all found themselves being martyred for the Good News of the Gospel. This, if nothing else, should give us pause before we brush this idea of resurrection under the carpet. The disciples never recanted, and we should take it as seriously.

I won’t belabor the point, as we are leaning into our Easter services on the weekend. But I would admonish you in this direction, and as you teach this story to those you are studying, let it stand in the way it is written. Don’t try to explain it away. Trust that the story of Jesus in his death and resurrection is just what we see.

It is the story of a God who loves his people so much that he is willing to go to any length to show them what love is.

It is a fact that Jesus loves us and loves us well. In this way, we see the expanse of the greatest love that has ever existed coming through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.

1. Do you believe that Jesus died for you? 
2. Do you believe that He loves you that much? 
3. Do you believe He also rose from the grave, conquering death and securing our salvation forever? 

We are so excited to be your church family on this amazing weekend. Thanks for taking this journey with us and leading someone to the cross!