And so, it all came true, just as He said. He was betrayed, mocked, beaten, taunted, humiliated and crucified. Even though many had heard Him say this would happen, I suspect there were more than a few who were still shocked at the happenings they had witnessed.
How many of them felt anguish at what they had seen?
How many of them had felt sorrow over their response to Him?
Then, just as He said, in the early morning of the first day of the week, He was missing from the tomb and alive once more. He was back and yet not the same and not permanently. Even those closest to Him did not immediately recognize Him.
For forty days He will walk the earth and be seen by those who will then bear witness that He is indeed alive. Then, He ascends into heaven. How they must have longed for Him to stay.
Those who had followed Him were not leaders, not scholars. They were common people. He had taught them so much, but how much had they understood? How much had been woven into the fabric of their hearts?
Despite all that He had said, it would have been easy for some to think this was the end of it all. For some, He had again not met their expectations or hopes.
I think so often how much you and I are like them. When our expectations and hopes in Him are disappointed, it can be so easy to doubt, to turn away, to give in to our self-pity, and to give up on trusting Him no matter what.
He had promised them He was sending them a Helper, but I cannot help but think they could not have known what that meant. What would happen in the Upper Room had never happened before. They had no frame of reference, but from this ragtag group of followers, one hundred twenty would obey in this and wait in that room for what would come next.
They would discover that what they had witnessed was not the end. It was not even the beginning of the end. It was the beginning of the power of His life and ministry that would fill each of them in such a way that His message would spread across the entire world. Despite persecution, despite all obstacles, it would continue to spread and go on living to the present moment.
You and I are still a part of that “going on” in this present hour.
We have celebrated Easter, but what now?
Do we recognize that He has placed the path before us and entrusted that we would continue to spread the Good News?
It can be easy for any one of us to listen or read the story and think of it as a scene from “back there” and fail to realize it is still ongoing and if you and I are alive today, each of us who call Him Lord has been given a role to play.
Yes, He could do it without us, but He has chosen to invite us to participate with Him.
Each of His disciples had a different path. We, His current disciples each have a different path.
Are we listening?
Have we responded and if so, how?
They walked with Him, but we live by and through Him. They saw Him ascend to His Father. We may yet see Him return to the same Mount of Olives from which He ascended.
I’ve been thinking about the disciples too – I and what it would have felt like to wonder what’s next. I know I can ask the Lord that often, rather than just follow where He leads one step at a time. Amen, to being a part of what He’s doing and being content that what He’s doing is enough. Glad to be your neighbor at #testimonytuesday today.
Thanks so much, Tiffany, for stopping by and sharing your own reflections. Blessings on your day!
Being reminded how very much a part of this story we truly are is beautiful! Thank you for that truth.
I love the way you expressed this truth, Pam. Yes, we get to be a part of the story God is telling and how awesome is that? God, help us to be bold disciples who go and spread your truth. Thank you for sharing!
Thanks so much! I appreciate your words! Have a blessed day!
Yes, we are still part of what went on, Jesus life on earth, even though it happened so long ago. We are connected and have a part to play. I didn’t really see this connection before. Thank you! Just thinking this way, Jesus feels closer to me.
Thanks, Lynn! I think it helps me to remember that as well.
Pam, I love how you refer to us as “His current disciples.” It brings such power to our calling. I think sometimes it’s easy for us to discount ourselves when we read about those who physically walked with Jesus. That somehow God won’t use us in the same manner. I love this fresh vision you’ve given us for Easter. Thanks for sharing at Monday Musings!
I think it can be easy to forget that and I think I felt nudged by Him in my own life to remember so I wanted to share it. Thanks so much for stopping to share. It was great to have you here! Have a wonderful week!
Hi Pam! I love your question here. Easter is such a joy, such a celebration! But it’s also a Summons, to have us go out and be Christ to each other anew.
I am not perfect, I still get upset, still wonder and doubt. But I know I will be accepted just like the Apostles were! May He help me to respond to how He wants me be His word and work in the world today.
Easter blessings!
Ceil
Thanks, Ceil! Great word about it also being a Summons! I so agree about the comfort the often messed up apostles are to my own walk. He chooses us “nevertheless”. Blessings on your week! Pam
‘Now what?’ can sometimes be the most powerful, needed question …
Absolutely!
I’ve loved your Easter series, Pam. May I not become weary in waiting for His return. Love to you, sweet friend!
Thanks!! It was one of those things that I had not planned, but evolved as a result of my own reflections. Hugs and love right back at you!!
Imagine if we celebrated 40 days after his Resurrection like many of us celebrate the 40 days before his death! Thank you for this wonderful challenge and for bringing attention to the truth that He is alive, and ascended, and that it still happens as He says!!
True! If we made it 50, we would arrive at Pentecost Sunday!! I so appreciate your comments and encouragement!
Pam, my heart was rejoicing the minute I read your title. OH.
How many times have I doubted the simple truth of God’s sovereignty, His foreknowledge, and His inspired Word through which — if I listen — I can hear Him say everyday, “I’ve got this.”
Your lovely Easter Monday words and your pictures give my heart hope that spring will come.
Thanks, Michele! My heart was leaping when I sensed the Lord nudging me to write it. I am with you on your experience of doubt, but hearing HIs patient response of having me covered. Have a blessed day! You are a blessing!!