Mark: Living the Way of Jesus in the WorldSample

First Thought 

None of the disciples seemed to expect the resurrection. Despite Jesus telling them on several occasions that He would die and on the third day rise again, they didn’t show up at the tomb on day three. The women weren’t expecting it either. No wonder they were very afraid when encountering the young man in white. He is risen, the angel declared. Go tell the disciples this great news, he urged them, especially Peter. The message is one of hope and joy, yet the women were initially scared into silence. All four Gospels report that women were the first witnesses to Jesus’ resurrection and received the angel’s commission to go tell the good news to the other disciples. This was deeply counter-cultural in Jesus’ day. Women’s testimony wasn’t admissible in legal contexts. So, it’s difficult to imagine the early church creating such testimony unless they believed it to be true. Of course, the women did overcome their fear and passed on the news of what they’d seen and heard. What about you?

What Does the Bible Say?

How does this passage give you confidence that Jesus is risen? 

Living it Out

How does this message of hope impact your everyday life? 

Responding in Prayer

Powerful God, you raised Christ from the dead. Jesus is alive. He is Lord of all. Help me live my life in the power of the Spirit (…). Amen.