Proof of the Resurrection

By Rev. Dr. Timothy Bias

Read 

Luke 24:1-12 

Reflect 

Christ is risen!  Christ is risen indeed! 

In the early church, the followers of Jesus understood themselves as the evidence of the resurrection. Luke said it this way, “The life of Jesus you all know, it’s a matter of public record. The death of Jesus is also a matter of public record. The resurrection of Jesus? Of that we are witnesses.” 

The late Dr. Peter J. Gomes, Plummer Professor of Christian Morals at Harvard, writes, “…the resurrection is a continuing event which involves everyone who dares be involved in it.  Easter is not just about Jesus, it’s about you. Jesus has already claimed his new life. What about you? Easter is not just about the past, it’s about the future. Your best days are ahead of you.  The proof of the resurrection is in your hands and in your life.” 

In this Easter Season, how do you and I become involved in the resurrection?  How do we become the proof of the resurrection? 

To become involved in the resurrection, we follow the life and ministry of Jesus. He identified himself with the poor and oppressed and with those who helped them.  Identification with the poor and oppressed is clearly essential. For this to happen, personal friendship with those who suffer is an invaluable step. Through your identification with persons and your involvement in their lives you become the proof of the resurrection. 

So, in these days of stay at home orders, social distancing, and great suspicion, how can you be the proof of the resurrection? Remember, “Easter is not just about the past, it’s about the future.  Your best days are ahead of you. The proof of the resurrection is in your hands and in your life.”  

How will you show your neighbors and your community that Christ is risen?

How will you be the proof of the resurrection is the midst of the chaos and anxiety of today? 

Respond

O God, by your grace give me the faith to live the new life you have given to me to live.  Use me to love people around me in such a way that they too will experience your grace. Amen 

Remember

Where and with whom were you the proof of the resurrection today?

Comment below or use a journal to record how God is with you each day of this journey.