After the Sabbath,Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to the tomb, and an earthquake shook the earth. An angel descended from heaven and rolled back the stone of the tomb; his face was bold like the lightning and his robe as white as new-fallen snow. The soldiers shook so badly that they looked like they were dead. The angel said, “Fear not, for I know you seek Jesus. He is risen, and the tomb is empty. Go tell His disciples that He will meet them in Galilee.” The women were filled with fear and joy, but they ran to tell the disciples the message. When they found them, Jesus appeared to them, and said, “All hail.” They all came and held His feet and worshiped Him. Jesus told them that they should not be afraid, and He would meet everyone in Galilee.
Believing in Jesus Christ is a lot easier on Easter day than other days when the world’s troubles zero in on our minds and hearts. The fear the angel and Christ spoke about seems to be an ever-present thing as we look at the news on the television or hear it on the radio. Maybe it is easier on this day because on the other days, doubts crowd in on us, and sometimes, the earthquake that shook the earth as the stone was rolled away has become the norm for most people’s lives. I am as guilty as the next person with fears and doubts. It is hard to find the peace of Christ when our country is so divided by corrupt politicians, racism, hate, anger, apathy, environmental issues, the threats of war, assault rifles on the streets, economic issues, and an over-zealous media.
When I struggle to find Christ’s peace, I remember that I will be risen with Christ when it is my turn to shuffle off this earth. I look forward to seeing Christ sitting at the right hand of God, and I place my love in Him, not earthly things. My life is hidden with Christ in God; when Christ appears before me, I will also appear before God in His glory. So why should I be fearful when I know Christ is risen from the dead? He died for my sins and those of others so that I may have everlasting life. He is my Lord and Savior, in whom my heart rests.
Anna Hartt
