It may be easier to believe knowing the whole story.
As a twenty-first-century believer, I can read the accounts of Holy Week, the betrayal, the denial, the crucifixion, the burial, and then the resurrection and be confident in my faith.
As a contemporary of Jesus, how would I have reacted to this same series of events?
Like the disciples when Jesus asked them to pray not to be tempted and instead fall asleep?
Like Peter and deny that I knew Jesus?
Like Mary Magdalene and be heartbroken at the unexpected events that led to a crucified Lord?
Like the ones that expected a revolution and saw their only hope beaten and crucified?
Like Judas who sold Jesus for 30 pieces of silver?
Like Thomas who after hearing Jesus was raised from the dead did not believe until he saw with his own eyes and felt the scars?
It seems easy to say that I would believe because I know the whole story. But the people seeing Jesus, living beside him, watching him love people, speak words of life were afraid, skeptical, and unsure. They heard Jesus teach love, forgiveness, and mercy but did not expect this would lead to death on the cross.
How will you accept the gift of salvation?
Like Peter and let Jesus show mercy after you denied knowing Jesus?
Like Mary Magdalene “I saw the Lord!” And she told them what Jesus had said to her.” John 20:18
Like the ones that expected a revolution and realized that the revolution Jesus brought is a revolution of thought and how to love all people?
Like Thomas who believed when he saw the miracle of a risen Savior?
Or like Judas, who could not believe that his sin was eligible for the grace he saw Jesus give so freely to others?
What will you do with the gift of salvation?
“He said to them, “It is written that the Christ would suffer and rise from the dead on the third day and that a change of hearts and lives and forgiveness of sins would be preached in his name to all nations, starting at Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. I will send you what my Father has promised, but you must stay in Jerusalem until you have received that power from heaven.” Luke 24:46-49 NCV
Resurrection Sunday.
