
I’ve shared this message every Easter since hearing it myself. It speaks to the purpose-filled detail, unwavering love and unrivaled power found in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. What a Hope we have to celebrate not only during this special time of year, but now and forevermore.
A pastor shared a very interesting perspective on the resurrection of Christ, specifically from John 20. He spoke of how Mary Magdalene and some of the disciples went to the tomb finding the cloth that covered Jesus’ face folded and set to the side, unlike the rest of His grave clothes which were thrown aside. He then began to elaborate on why this seemingly simple act, the folding of the facecloth, was an amazing reminder that He is faithful to His promises.
When having dinner, Hebrew tradition called for Jewish masters to have their servants prepare the table. The table was set perfectly, just as the master wanted it, and the servant would wait and watch, daring not touch the table until the master was finished. If the master was done eating, he would rise from the table, wipe his fingers, his mouth, clean his beard, and wad up the napkin and toss it onto the table. The servant would then know to clear the table. The wadded napkin meant, ‘I’m done’. But if the master got up from the table, and folded his napkin, and laid it beside his plate, the servant would not dare touch the table, because the folded napkin meant, ‘I’m not done!’
So many of our children feel their lives have been wadded up and thrown aside, leaving nothing left for them at the table. Maybe you feel the same way or have moments where you struggle with the effects of abandonment or betrayal. Maybe you’re just weary and lacking hope because of life in a broken world. No matter how out-of-control your life seems or how burdened you are, Christ is not done.
His death proves the extent to which He loves us and His resurrection secures our eternity. As we celebrate this Easter weekend, it is our hope that you rest in the Master’s promise that He’s not done!