The crucifixion of Jesus must have been a crushing blow for the followers of Jesus. They probably felt disillusioned and afraid, and perhaps they even lost their faith in what Jesus had taught and done during His ministry. But by raising Jesus from the dead, God made it abundantly clear that He was pleased with His entire life and ministry. But there is more! The resurrection of Jesus also means that there is no turning back. God's life-giving spirit is being poured out on all humanity, and Jesus is at work reconciling the entire world to Himself. God's fervent desire to redeem and transform humanity will never be thwarted by human sinfulness. God has the last word!

And just look at the effect that this resurrection has on people! Our cowardly friend Peter is now boldly and fearlessly proclaiming the Risen Lord in public. He is changed forever. The women who encounter the Risen Jesus as they run from the tomb are also transformed, for they have a sense of their worth and dignity. They are also apostles, and need not ever be confined to a second-class status.

Have we met the Risen Lord? Do will still live in fear, or do we truly know that we are loved and that God is with us? The resurrection of Jesus is something we must experience personally, for it is far more than a doctrine or belief. It is life itself. Jesus is Risen, and we share that joy!