Indeed!

Matthew 28:2 (NIV)
 There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. 

The Miracle happened before the violent earthquake. Jesus came back to life, rose from the dead, before the earthquake. The quake merely opened the tomb so the followers could get in and look around not so Jesus could get out.  He had already risen and He stood outside the tomb!

Why is this important, what difference does it make? Perhaps not that much at first glance, but upon further consideration this is significant. The angel had nothing to do with Jesus' resurrection, the miracle took place before the angel's arrival.

The Heavenly Being was a messenger, an important part of the greatest and boldest announcement of all time.  "He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay." Matthew 28:6 (NIV)  

This angel was the first to share the Good News. We have an empty cross and an empty tomb! He is Risen!  He is Risen indeed!

Matthew 28:1-10

The Story - Chapter 27- The Resurrection

"His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow." (Matthew 28:3) 


Dear God,
As we move forward reading The Story today we find ourselves at the tomb, the empty tomb.  It is Tuesday of Holy Week and we are reminded that that journey is going to get difficult, but we will eventually arrive at the empty tomb.

Give your people courage to face this week with open hearts and minds.  Fill our Spirits with hopeful images and push us to face the difficult hours that lie ahead.  Father, teach us to pray with Your Son as we remember His garden moments of grief and pain. This week is all about Jesus.  This week is all about what He did for us.  This week is all about the empty tomb.


Read Matthew 28:1-10 here

Listen to Matthew 28:1-10 here