There are four great things found in the neighborhood of Matt. 28:1-9: (1) The dead Jesus, the only truly good man that ever lived. (Matt. 27:57-60) (2) Jesus has risen from the dead. (Matt. 28:6) (3) Jesus has gone before us. (Matt. 28:7) (4) “When they saw Him, they worshipped Him, but some doubted.” (Matt. 28:17.)
The last two weeks, we have been looking at great things found in Jesus’ resurrection. Today, we spend some time on the last worthy note: Some doubted.
In his final days when Jesus faced his own death, He heroically shows us the way to face ours! When He kept his appointment with death, the dying process began several days, weeks, and months earlier, but the disciples were slow to believe and recognize these things. Some of us are slow to catch on also.
Jesus kept His appointment with death in spite of the fact that his support system wavered in their support. He kept that appointment in spite of sleeping disciples, his betrayal, Peter’s denial, their forsaking him, his burial, and the unbelief of many.
Today, in baptism and at the Lord’s table and in the trials of life and in facing death, looking forward to the Great Judgement Day — we can meet the Lord once again.
Matthew 28:17 says that the disciples were slow to believe. In my doubts and questionings — this gives me hope! In SPITE of all their doubts, Jesus accepted their worship and gave them the Great Commission, anyway!
The life story of Jesus on Earth proves once and for all that to a Christian — death is NOT just an end — but a pathway to a new beginning. The irony is that down at the cemetery when it seems that all is lost — in reality, all is found!
“A cocoon is a promise that butterflies will soon be free. In the cold and snow of winter is the Spring that wants to be. Unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see.
There is a song in every silence seeking word and melody. There is dawn in every darkness bringing hope to you and me. From the past will come the future, but it holds a mystery. Unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see.
Our end is our beginning of time infinity. In our doubts, there comes believing, In our lives eternity. In our death comes resurrection, and at last the victory. Unrevealed until it’s season something God alone can see.” BY NATALIE SLEETH
Doug Greenway
These blog articles are written by the retired minister and former educator and counselor, Doug Greenway. He'd love to hear from you with your comments, questions, or suggestions for future topics. You may reach Doug at doug_greenway@yahoo.com.