The Empty Tomb Filled with Love

Countless stories have been written about the miracle and marvel of Easter. An act of love beyond all acts of love. The single most important event in the life of Jesus and the single most important event in all of human history.

Without this act of love, mercy, grace and generosity, Christianity is nothing more than an odd ancient story. Worse still, Jesus is nothing more than a liar or a fool. You either believe in His resurrection or you don’t, there is no middle path. None.

Those who knew and followed Jesus, struggled with their faith. I know I have, and I do. I know many others have, and do. What binds our faith in this world is love. Love is all that matters because God is love.

Reading John’s account of Mary Magdalene discovering the empty tomb makes me cry. I’m overwhelmed by her faith and love for Jesus. And while her faith was being tested, her love for her Rabboni, her teacher, never waivers.   

In my mind’s eye I can picture her awash in grief. My heart feels her pain because I know deep loss. Our spirits connect because we believe that Jesus lives.   

Now Mary stood outside the tomb crying.

I have wept for those I have lost to death.
Shedding tears for those I have loved.
Crying because others have loved me.
Tears spilled when love left my world.

Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus.
He asked her, “Woman, why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?”

God knows our heartache.
Jesus lived our grief.
The Holy Spirit consoles our sorrow.
Our pain is never solitary, our pain is always shared.

Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: “I have seen the Lord!”

Because I am blessed, a few souls on earth weep for me.
Because I believe, the hosts of heaven rejoice for me.
Because I believe in the resurrection of Jesus Christ, death is conquered for me.
Death has been conquered for everyone who believes in Jesus Christ.

Happy Resurrection Sunday.

Peace. God loves you.