The fact that the garden tomb could not hold Him is cause for celebration.

This single truth is great news for all of us. Jesus conquered death! He’s made a way for us to do the same.

Mark 16:2-7 (NIV) Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb and they asked each other, “Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb?” But when they looked up, they saw the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away. As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed. 

“Don’t be alarmed,” he said. “You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. But go, tell his disciples and Peter, ‘He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.'”

Jesus Kept His Word

Those who saw Jesus die on the cross believed he was dead. But God’s divine plan was working out a different ending. Jesus had even told his disciples that something different was going to happen. Yes, he would hang on the cross and die. But, just wait three days. The third day would change everything–forever! On the third day he would arise to life . . . again.

Death was necessary for the atonement of sin. Jesus died to cover our sins—past, present, and future sins.The death of Jesus was really the doorway leading to the resurrection power of new life.

Easter is About the Resurrection

Today’s traditions of colored eggs, bunnies, candy, Easter Lilies, and church services, can point to the greatest event of all time. Jesus is alive! Eggs represent the nucleus of new life. Egg coloring shares the red of Christ’s blood. Bunnies reproduce quickly, thus point to the cycle of new birth. We go from a physical birth to a spiritual birth in Christ. The taste of forgiveness adds sweetness to the soul. And, fragrant Easter Lilies are symbolic of the aroma of Christ’s goodness.

Easter is a time set apart to remember the real message told around the world in many languages. It tells of the resurrection of Jesus and brings hope to all people in all nations. His perfect sacrifice sets us free from condemnation. We are justified.

We, too, Can Conquer Death

Because the tomb could not hold Jesus, those who believe in him have already conquered death. God promises us the same power that brought His Son out of the grave, belongs to us. One day, we will arise with resurrection breath—and for eternity be more alive than we can even imagine right now. Nothing can surpass the joy we will feel on that day. We pray now, but then we will be welcomed into the presence of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, forever.

Happy Easter one and all!