Transformed
“The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid; for I know that you are looking for Jesus who has been crucified. He is not here, for He has risen, just as He said.”
Matthew 28:5-6
I remember when my kids were little, they found a huge green caterpillar in our front yard. They put the boring bug in a small insect-catching container and left it on the front porch.
The next morning that little bug catcher was holding the most glorious neon-green creature we had ever seen. It was a Lunar Moth. Overnight, that green worm was transformed into a majestic, winged being that eventually flew away into the sky. It felt like we had witnessed a miracle.
Just like we experienced with that moth, the miracle of transformation is still happening today. It happens every time someone places their trust in Jesus Christ for salvation. The bow their heads in death and weakness, covered in sin and shame. They lift their heads in glory, forgiveness, power and life. It’s a miracle every time it happens. How glorious is the transformation of the human heart!
Mary and the women at the tomb experienced the greatest transformation of all. Their beloved Jesus, broken and crucified two days before, had been laid in Joseph’s tomb. They came to anoint the body of their slain Rabbi. What they found at the tomb that day changed their lives and transformed history.
Jesus’ dead body had emerged from death like a butterfly emerges from a cocoon. The grave and the tomb couldn’t hold Him. Death was no match for the power of His resurrection. His life was greater. His mission to save the world from sin was at stake. Christ had to come forth alive from that tomb. And now He lives forevermore to save and to transform everyone who believes in His name.
You and I have experienced the weakness and limitations of our own nature. We have seen how far we fall short of the glory of God.
My prayer today is that you also experience the power and overcoming victory of the life of Jesus. His life cannot be contained by sin, weakness or death. His hope cannot be buried in self-pity and shame. His glory will not be hidden under a basket.
He is alive. He is the Resurrection and the Life. His power is uncontainable. His love is unconquerable. His beauty is unmatched.
Let’s celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ this weekend. Let’s take a few moments to fix our eyes on the miracle of His victory over death and the grave. Thank God with me that our Savior is not buried in a tomb somewhere, but HE IS ALIVE and He lives FOREVERMORE!!
Thank you God that Jesus has risen. He has risen indeed! Hallelujah!