April 1, 2026

The week of the Crucifixion had to be dreadful for the Disciples. Jesus was preoccupied, spending much time in prayer. He told them He was facing betrayal, humiliation and death. He promised He would rise from His tomb in three days. It was impossible to comprehend the death of His love. He was the Messiah. He’d been sent to free the Israelites who’d been waiting endless generations for His arrival. Their memories of His friendship, the miracles, wisdom and love were more than enough evidence He was indeed the Son of God.

Life after death was a hotly debated topic at that time. Jesus had raised Lazarus from a grave. And a few other people too. They’d seen many miracles as they traveled with Him almost three years. This ending, with death and the religious leaders defeating Him, sounded nothing like the promises they’d heard as children. Most expected a warrior Messiah, fierce, powerful and perhaps wielding a sword. They loved Him so much. His gentle spirit touched everyone. His smile started in His soft eyes and exploded in contagious joy. He was exactly the way God’s Son should be. So much love. Very little anger. And yet, He had a power that could calm the seas. Grief overwhelmed them as they walked and talked their way to Jerusalem. They promised to stay close by His side and share whatever He faced.

Father, I can imagine that long walk. Dusty feet. Hot sandals. Conversations trailing off as Jesus explained the things He would face. Even if His followers could have pictured what resurrection looked like, how could He continue His ministry? How did all this translate to freedom? The disciples did not have my advantage of two thousand years of history. Thank You, Lord, that the gentle spirit, the miracle working power, and the majesty of love have turned this world upside down. Two thousand years of evidence He is alive. Thousands of books. Millions of testimonies. Every time God’s enemies try to say He is dead, the overwhelming spirit of Jesus Christ reminds us that is a lie. He loves us in the same way He loved the Disciples. He loves us just as the Father loved Him.

He’s not here. He has been brought back to life as he said. Come, see the place where he was lying. Matthew 28:6