Much has been written about Easter Sunday and the resurrection of Jesus, which we will celebrate this coming weekend. It’s one of the three pivotal events (his birth and death being the first two) in not only Christianity but all of history. Contemplating the events leading up to the crucifixion evokes many emotions, including deep sorrow over what Jesus had to suffer as he willingly and lovingly laid down his life for all of humanity.
When I meditate on the resurrection itself, I am always flooded with hope and joy – what an amazing and powerful finale to an incredible week, and an incredible life. I can’t help but think of the last scene of The Gospel According to Matthew, made almost 30 years ago. The script was the book of Matthew, word for word. At the very end of the movie, we see Jesus walking away. Then he turns around and with a huge smile, waves for us to follow him.
The look of joy on his face, his welcoming smile and his gesture of inclusion make me want to get up and go. That smile reminds me why I have been willing to follow him anywhere and will continue to follow him. He did it – he conquered sin and death – for me, for you, for all of us, and cemented our place in eternity with him. Happy resurrection celebration!
Jesus - Son, Savior, God 