Risen
Opening Prayer
Jesus, You have conquered death and You live. Because You live, I know that I will live. Thank You for such great hope!
Read LUKE 24:36-49
[36] While they were still talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” [37] They were startled and frightened, thinking they saw a ghost. [38] He said to them, “Why are you troubled, and why do doubts rise in your minds? [39] Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself! Touch me and see; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have.” [40] When he had said this, he showed them his hands and feet. [41] And while they still did not believe it because of joy and amazement, he asked them, “Do you have anything here to eat?” [42] They gave him a piece of broiled fish, [43] and he took it and ate it in their presence. [44] He said to them, “This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms.” [45] Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. [46] He told them, “This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, [47] and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. [48] You are witnesses of these things. [49] I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.” Scripture taken from the THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION, NIV Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
Reflect
How did Jesus reveal that his body was risen?The disciples had heard reports about the risen Jesus. They were hoping against hope, but they were still full of fear and doubt.Jesus comes to his disciples. He speaks peace to them and acknowledges their doubts (38), but he assures them that he is indeed alive. Jesus makes a few points about the implications of his resurrection. First he proves to them that he is not a ghost. He lets them touch him and eats some fish with them (39,43). Then he helps them to understand how he, as Messiah, has fulfilled Old Testament Scripture. This was the culmination of all that had been passed down to them through the generations and all that Jesus had taught them. The Christ had to suffer and die and rise again on the third day (47). Next he gives them a job: to be witnesses to his salvation. They are to spread the news of new life and forgiveness. Jesus will not leave them alone for this task. He promises that the Father will send them power for this job; they are to wait for the coming of the Holy Spirit (49).
Apply
Call or write a letter to someone who needs to know the Good News of God’s love offered in the death and life of Jesus.
Closing prayer
Gracious King, until You return, may I take courage to spread the news of repentance and forgiveness offered in You.
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