Resurrection

After the sabbath, as the first day of the week was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. And suddenly there was a great earthquake; for an angel of the Lord, descending from heaven, came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow. For fear of him the guards shook and became like dead men. But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid; I know that you are looking for Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for he has been raised, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples, ‘He has been raised from the dead, and indeed he is going ahead of you to Galilee; there you will see him.’ This is my message for you.” So they left the tomb quickly with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. Suddenly Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” And they came to him, took hold of his feet, and worshiped him. Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.” ~ Matthew 28:1-10

Resurrection is scary.

I mean, it is beautiful and hopeful and joyful...

But what is the reaction of the women (not to mention those guards)?

They are scared. And who can blame them. Everything they thought they know about the world was changed. Death suddenly wasn't what they thought it was. And well, neither was life.

I wonder what the women thought when they were told Jesus had been raised? I wonder if that was part of the fear. What would be be like? Would be be like a ghost? A Zombie? Would he be frightening to look at?

Yet, despite their fears, the women do as the scary angel asks and go and tell the good news.

Are you ever scared to tell the good news of Jesus?

Are you ever scared to face a resurrection in your life? The putting to death of something that was to enter into the something that will be? Or must be?

The putting to death of old habits? Old beliefs? Addictions? Unhealthy relationships?

Old ways of being?

What if in addition to the fear that accompanied the change you were called to, you let the joy seep in as well.

Maybe then resurrection would hit you in all its glory!

Lord, free me from the fear of new life. Amen