Luke 24:8-9
Sometimes, I forget what Jesus said.
It’s not that I can’t recall or repeat his words; it’s that I pay much more attention to other voices. The others induce a kind of temporary amnesia in me. Clamoring anxiety, shouting anger, whispering shame, or accusing guilt make it almost impossible for me to remember Jesus’ truthful and loving words. Persistent distraction has almost the same effect as outright forgetting.
The women who arrive at Jesus’ tomb on Easter morning are, understandably, listening to their heartbreak. No one ever treated or spoke to them as Jesus had—as equals and friends. He encouraged them to move beyond the confining roles their culture assigned them and imagine themselves free to flourish in the fullness of their gifts and talents.
Their highest hopes have died with Jesus. When they get to his tomb, find the stone rolled away from its entrance, don’t see his body, and encounter shining messengers, they are understandably anxious and bewildered.
These mysterious messengers challenge the women to remember Jesus’ promise of resurrection, a promise that all their swirling emotions has silenced. When they remember, and as their trust in what they remember grows, the good news of resurrection fills them. Soon, they will announce this good news to Jesus’ other followers.
I want to remember what Jesus said. “Let your light shine.” “Come to me, and I will give you rest.” “I don’t condemn you; go and sin no more.” “Get up and walk again.” “I won’t leave you or forsake you.” “Abide in my love.” Words like these are too good not to share.
Consider
Amid all the distractions I face, what practices could help me remember Jesus’ words of love, grace, and mercy?
Pray
Thank you, Jesus, for continuing to remind me that your mercy heals me, your grace forgives me, and your love embraces me. Amen.