A BRAND-NEW START

 

Sunday, May 7, 2023

 

A BRAND-NEW START

John 20:1

20 The first day of the week cometh Mary Magdalene early, when it was yet dark, unto the sepulchre, and seeth the stone taken away from the sepulchre.

 

          It was a new day although it was still dark when Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to the garden tomb. I envision a cool morning mist comforting the women as they struggled with their load of embalming spices. Religious regulation forced a hurried entombment, and the body was meagerly and improperly prepared. These had come to remedy that final insult.

 

          The frightful earthquake that shook the city when Jesus died must have produced some after-shocks because the huge stone was dislodged from the door of the tomb. Oh, would they not at least let the Master sleep in peace? Someone had stolen the body. A sudden storm of emotions would not be denied. First shock, then anger, fear, and hopelessness flooded them.

 

          They ran to tell the others and then quickly returned. What could have happened? Who would steal a mummy and leave behind his wrappings? Yet there they lay, as if the body dematerialized leaving a shell in the shape of the body. The napkin was folded neatly by itself. What thief would take such time and care in their thievery? No, something was not right. Peter entered and searched as if Jesus might be hiding in some nook or corner. John finally peered in “and believed.”

 

          John 20: 9 and 10 gives us two amazing comments. Verse 9 tells us that they had not yet known the scripture that he must rise again. Incredible! Jesus talked about it almost constantly! Next, verse 10 tells us that they all just wandered off and went to their own homes. Perhaps too discouraged to pursue a search, each yielded to his despair.

 

          But Mary stayed behind. Perhaps she could learn something from that Gardener over there. Oh, Sir, could you tell me where they have taken Him? He only answered by saying her name, MARY! Oh, it was indeed a new day and a brand-new start.

 

Rev 21:5-6

5 And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.

6 And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.