Matthew 28
The Power of Rest and Resurrection: A Reflection on Matthew 28
As we reflect on the story of the resurrection in Matthew 28, we are reminded of how central rest and God's timing are to this pivotal moment in history. Jesus could have orchestrated His resurrection to take place on any given day, but He chose the day after the Sabbath. This choice, intentionally made by God, carries deep significance. The resurrection occurred in the quiet moments of early morning, just as dawn broke—an image that symbolizes the dawn of new life for all creation.
Rest and Renewal: The Timing of Resurrection
The day after the Sabbath—the day when the world was still and resting—was the moment God chose to bring forth the resurrection. As the women came to the tomb early in the morning, the tomb was already empty, signifying that God's power was at work while they were still sleeping. It's a reminder that even in our times of rest, God is always working. He doesn’t need us to be constantly striving. In fact, there is something sacred about resting in the Lord’s presence, trusting that He is in control. This theme of "rest out of which God works" is crucial for us today, as we live in a culture that often glorifies productivity and efficiency. Yet, true faith involves trusting that God’s work doesn’t stop just because we pause.
The Supernatural Revelation: God's Power in Creation
The resurrection wasn't just an ordinary event—it was marked by an earthquake and the appearance of an angel, symbolizing the breaking of natural barriers. Creation itself responded to the resurrection of its Creator. In verse 2, Matthew recounts the violent earthquake that accompanied the angel's appearance. This was no mere natural occurrence; it was supernatural. The earth trembled at the reality that the Maker was alive once again. This was not just the return of a man to life, but the moment that all of creation recognized the power of God at work.
The resurrection is a reminder that all of creation, even inanimate things like rocks, are part of God’s greater narrative. In Luke 19:40, Jesus says that if the people were silent, the stones would cry out in praise. And in Matthew 28, we see just that—creation bears witness to the resurrection of the Savior.
The Resurrection: Just as He Said
Perhaps the most significant takeaway from Matthew 28 is the assurance that God's promises come to fruition just as He said. The angel’s words to the women are so profound: "He has risen, just as He said." This declaration is a reminder of the power of God's promises and the certainty with which they will be fulfilled. Jesus didn’t just come to live and die for humanity—He came to rise again, breaking the power of death and offering us new life, eternal life.
As we read this chapter, we realize the significance of Jesus' resurrection not just in history but in our lives today. It is a foundation of our faith, a marker of time, and a promise for the future. And just as Jesus rose, so too are we promised resurrection and new life in Him. This truth brings hope and joy, knowing that what God has said, He will do.
Living in the Wake of the Resurrection
As we reflect on the resurrection, we are called to live out its meaning in our daily lives. Jesus’ resurrection isn’t just a historical event to be celebrated once a year; it’s the foundation of our faith, calling us to rest in Him, trust in His promises, and live out His mission in the world. Just as the women were sent on mission immediately after meeting the resurrected Jesus, we too are sent to share the good news of His victory over death. In this, we find our purpose: to partner with God in bringing the message of resurrection life to those around us.
The resurrection of Jesus is not just something we commemorate; it’s something we live out. As we rest in God’s presence, trust in His timing, and declare His resurrection, we are joining in the grand story of redemption that began with creation and continues today. Just as He said, it is finished—our hope is secure in the risen Christ.
