The Surprise of the Ages

Some people do not like surprises, but most people do.  A surprise suggests both the unanticipated and unexpected.  Whatever the situation the surprise usually brings a smile to the face and joy to the heart.  Jesus had been crucified on the cross and was laid in the tomb.  When Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb they were given a wonderful surprise which turned out to be some very great news.  “The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified.  He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you” (Matthew 28:5-7).

The great surprise had a wonderful, everlasting consequence. Because Christ lives, we who believe in, trust in, and have received him, shall also live.  Earlier, when speaking with Martha, whose brother Lazarus died, Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.” (John 11:25-26).

The surprise of the ages turned out to the resurrection Sunday.  What a great Easter we can enjoy because of what Jesus has done for us.  He is indeed our living Savior.  No wonder the songwriter could write words and music that expressed the fact that “He Lives” (Alfred Henry Ackley, 1933).