"He is not here; for He has risen, just as He said."
Matthew 28:6a
Spring is an exciting time of year for me, as it is for many people. But I have a very special reason. It was during the spring of the year that I became a follower of Jesus. In fact, it was just before Easter.
So when Resurrection Day approaches each year, I am reminded of when Jesus saved me. Every white lily, every new blade of grass--even the spring weeds in my yard--help me remember how Jesus brought new birth to my life.
When we think about the life of Jesus at this time of year, there are three things which stand out vividly. One is that when Jesus was born, He was laid in a manger. Later, I'm sure Joseph made Him a cradle. But the cradle is empty. Jesus is not in the cradle any more.
The second thing which stands out is that when Jesus was crucified, He was nailed to a cross. But the cross is empty, too. Jesus is not still hanging there, bleeding and dying,.
The third thing which stands out is that when Jesus was buried, He was placed in a new tomb which had never been used. But the tomb is empty! Jesus has risen from the dead, and the tomb could not keep Him captive.
The cradle, the cross and the tomb–all three are empty. That is the way it is supposed to be. The tragedy is that there are still so many empty hearts and lives, which Jesus longs to fill with Himself. This Resurrection Day, and every day that follows, won't you surrender your emptiness, that you might know His fullness?
–Rocky Henriques, www.uticabc.com