Jesus cried out “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me” as he hung on that wooden cross. That feeling of separation was intense for Jesus in that moment. Yet, Jesus did not come down from the cross. He stayed there and died for us as a perfect and final sacrifice for sin.
On Sunday, we celebrated what we know is true. Jesus is alive. God raised Jesus from the dead with all power in the hand of Jesus. Separation and death were not the final chapter. A new chapter began where redemption from sin and right relationship with God is possible for all who believe.
We are in a dark time now. We were never promised that we would not have to deal with shadows, even shadows of death. However, the psalmist proclaimed that though we walk through the valley of the shadow of death, we will not fear evil.
Our celebrations of the resurrection of Christ Jesus were not in sanctuaries filled with people. The presence of other people is not absolutely required for us to acknowledge that Jesus is alive. Mary of Magdala was the first person to witness that Jesus was alive. Although she was at the tomb with other women to anoint the body of Jesus, and although Peter and John ran to see the empty tomb, Mary alone was the first witness. She did not need a crowd and neither do we.
Our hearts celebrate the risen savior. Our love for each other presents the risen savior to other people. How we handle adversity is a testimony to our faith in Christ Jesus. We walk in the shadow of death but we are not consumed by fear. Our salvation is assured. We have peace of mind. With humble hearts but bold spirits we bring all of our cares to God in prayer.
Pray. Do not stop praying. Cover families, households, businesses, communities, leaders, medical personnel, first responders, teachers, truck drivers, delivery personnel, postal workers, factory workers, warehouse workers, grocery store workers, and restaurant employees and owners in prayer. Let the peace and protection of God wash over all of the individuals responsible for someone’s care.
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