A Norvell Note for April 5, 2021
Vol. 23 No. 13
The Day After Easter
I originally published this several years ago, but it seems appropriate to share it again today.
Luke ends his account of the life of Jesus like this:
44 Then he said, “Everything I told you while I was with you comes to this: All the things written about me in the Law of Moses, in the Prophets, and in the Psalms have to be fulfilled.”
45-49 He went on to open their understanding of the Word of God, showing them how to read their Bibles this way. He said, “You can see now how it is written that the Messiah suffers, rises from the dead on the third day, and then a total life-change through the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed in his name to all nations—starting from here, from Jerusalem! You’re the first to hear and see it. You’re the witnesses (Italics mine). What comes next is very important: I am sending what my Father promised to you, so stay here in the city until he arrives, until you’re equipped with power from on high.”
50-51 He then led them out of the city over to Bethany. Raising his hands he blessed them, and while blessing them, took his leave, being carried up to heaven.
52-53 And they were on their knees, worshiping him. They returned to Jerusalem bursting with joy. They spent all their time in the Temple praising God. Yes. (Luke 24:44-53, The Message)
I hope your Easter Sunday included a time of genuine fellowship, energized and God-focused worship, and a message from the Word that challenged you, encouraged you and inspired you to greater service in the Kingdom of God.
As you spent time over the last week reflecting on the last days of the life of Jesus, you also reflected on how you are living your life and how you would want to spend the last week of your life. I hope, now that we have passed through another Easter season, you and I will accept the same role as that of those who were with Jesus after His Resurrection. In verse 48 of the text above Jesus explains their new identity in the Kingdom: “You are the witnesses.”
A witness sees an event. Jesus told them that they had seen the fulfillment of things He had told them would happen. “You can see now how it is written that the Messiah suffers, rises from the dead on the third day, and then a total life-change through the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed in his name to all nations—starting from here, from Jerusalem! You’re the first to hear and see it.” (46-47)
When you are a witness, you can testify as to what you have seen. When you see a crime, you might serve as a witness in court.
When Jesus tells them, “You’re the witnesses” He is challenging them, and giving them an open door to share what they have seen and experienced. He tells them to wait until the Spirit comes to them but be ready to be the witnesses. If you read further in Luke’s writings (the book of Acts), you will see they accept and excel in being His witnesses.
You and I witnessed something yesterday. Because we are witnesses, it is now time for us to share what we saw, what we experienced, or the impact, and why it was so significant. That is what a witness does. That is what we are.
The only question that remains is, will we accept our role as His witnesses?
It is the day after Easter. Will you be His witness?
Tom
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