VII.
Let’s return to this passage describing the start of the day “After the sabbath, as the first day of the week was drawing …” after the crucifixion of Jesus.

Please pay close attention to the women.

VIII.
Matthew 28:1-10 (New Revised Standard Version)

After the sabbath, as the first day of the week was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. And suddenly there was a great earthquake; for an angel of the Lord, descending from heaven, came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow. For fear of him the guards shook and became like dead men. But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid; I know that you are looking for Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for he has been raised, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples, ‘He has been raised from the dead, and indeed he is going ahead of you to Galilee; there you will see him.’ This is my message for you.” So they left the tomb quickly with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. Suddenly Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” And they came to him, took hold of his feet, and worshiped him. Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.”

IX.
Emotions were on something of a roller-coaster that morning.

There is expectation, fear, and surprise. And probably doubt or outright disbelief also? Might we also add “awe” and “worship”?

Twice the women are told “Do not be afraid …”

And on top of all of that, the women are given an assignment.

They are to take a message to the disciples/brothers.

X.
Take a few minutes and reread the passage.

Now, search your memory and see who you notice that brought to you any news of resurrection.

You were probably brought such news several times?

At least I am guessing you were brought such news.

How did it strike you?

How does it strike you now?

Believable? Something to stake your future on or not?

Something that changes your present? Does it make a difference in how you consider each day?

charles
{ubi caritas et amor, Deus ibi est}