He is risen - Ua toetū o Ia

Scripture Focus: Luka 24:1-8

But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they and some others came to the tomb, bringing the spices which they had prepared. They found the stone rolled away from the tomb. They entered in, and didn’t find the Lord Jesus’ body. While they were greatly perplexed about this, behold, two men stood by them in dazzling clothing. Becoming terrified, they bowed their faces down to the earth. They said to them, “Why do you seek the living among the dead? He isn’t here, but is risen. Remember what he told you when he was still in Galilee, saying that the Son of Man must be delivered up into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again?” They remembered his words,
- Luke 24:1-8 (WEB)

Study:

This passage captures the very first announcement of Jesus’ resurrection. The women, faithful followers, went to the tomb to continue the customary practice of preparing Jesus’ body for burial. Their expectations were met with an empty tomb and a scene of angelic messengers. Their initial response was confusion and fear, a natural reaction to encountering the supernatural. The angels’ message is pivotal: they are seeking the *living* among the *dead*. Jesus' resurrection fundamentally alters the landscape of faith. The angel's question prompts them to remember what Jesus had foretold – His suffering, death, and resurrection. This wasn't an unexpected event but the fulfillment of prophecy. The fact that they *remembered* His words underscores the importance of continually recalling and meditating on Jesus’ teachings.

Application:

This story encourages us to examine our own expectations and preconceived notions about God. Often, we seek comfort and understanding within the familiar, neglecting the possibility of God acting in ways that surpass our limited comprehension. The resurrection is not simply a historical event; it’s a call to look for the living Jesus in our lives today. Are we looking for Jesus in the right places? Are we allowing space for the miraculous, or do we confine God to the boundaries of our understanding? The resurrection provides hope and assurance that death is not the end, and that Jesus is truly alive and active in the world.

Reflection Questions:

• What expectations did the women have when they went to the tomb?
• How does our initial reaction to the unexpected reveal our faith?
• What does it mean to seek the “living among the dead”?
• How can we better 'remember' Jesus’ words and apply them to our lives?
• What hope does the resurrection offer us in the face of loss and suffering?

Prayer:

Loving Lord Jesus, thank you for your glorious resurrection! Help us to move beyond our assumptions and seek you in unexpected places. Fill us with the hope and joy of your presence, and empower us to share your good news with the world. Amen.

Tags: resurrection, easter, luke, gospel, jesus, hope, faith, angels, remembrance, toetu, ua toetū o ia