Apr 18, 2014 3 min read

Scripture reading: Luke 24:1-11. Text: “Why do you seek the living among the dead?” (Other ancient authorities add: “He is not here, but has risen.”) Luke 24:5-6.

This question has a supernatural origin since it was presented to the women who came to Jesus’ tomb to anoint His body by two men “in dazzling apparel.” 4th verse. This angelic challenge focuses our attention to the very root of Easter: life or death? However, we cannot face this question as a criminal does in the prison on death row. The background and the circumstances lift this question from the biological setting into the spiritual realm.

Old questions are answered, but new ones arise.

There is no generation which is not intrigued by questions, mysteries, enigmas, puzzles, and miracles of their own age. Man’s inquisitive and rational mind wishes to explain the mysteries and clarify the miracles.

We now know more about the structures of the atom and universe (microcosms, macrocosms), we better understand how the human body and mind function, however, concerning the mystery, message, and mandate of Easter we still rely exclusively on the Scriptures.

Our biblical knowledge and living faith offer these answers to the question: What is Easter for me today?

It is the greatest miracle. What are the criteria of a miracle for us? – It really happened and it can be proven that it occurred. Read 1 Corinthians 15:6-8.

n There is no logical explanation of how it took place. We are still standing with awe and admiration before Jesus’ empty tomb. Because we know WHO was behind it, we do not have to be so interested the process. Because we know the connection between the “divine initiator” and the “supernatural outcome,” we consider it a miraculous event. Any seemingly exceptional case which can be repeated by human effort is not a miracle.

It is the greatest comfort. We cannot imagine a happy child without his/her mother’s consolation. Whatever comfort we need when we grow up depends upon the given situation, however, at any funeral service there is only one real comfort-the resurrection, namely Jesus defeated death and became “the first fruit of those who have fallen asleep.” 1 Corinthians 15:20/b.

It is the sharpest dividing line. What is the central and undisputable message of the whole New Testament? Christ rose from the dead! If you believe in Jesus’ resurrection, you worship God, treat people, shape your philosophy, nurture your conscience, carry your cross, and face the future in a very different way than do those who deny it. Please Read John 5:28-29.

You have already heard the holiday wish so many times: Have a Happy Easter! May you this time, through the witnesses of the Bible and inspiration from above, have a miraculous, comforting and decision-making Easter. “For to this end Christ died and lived again, that he might be Lord both of the dead and of the living.” Romans 14:9.

The Rev. Alexander Jalso is a retired United Presbyterian minister living in Ligonier.