The events of the crucifixion and resurrection are still relevant to us today and continue to be a beacon of hope for new beginnings in 2019.

Further Scripture:
Luke 24:34, Revelation 1:17-18, Acts 1:3, John 20:6-7 10-13, Psalm 30:3, Ezekiel 18:31, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Hebrews 2:18, Colossians 2:14-15, John 14:2

Apply The Word:
To the disciples it looked like Jesus had died and gone forever, they were in deep grief and sadness. What are you grieving for? Are there things in the past that you cannot overcome? Are there things that you are still holding on to from your past? How much guilt, shame, pain and regret do you carry? Your suffering and sadness does not determine the rest of your life. Your past sin and failures do not define your future! Through Christ’s death and resurrection, He took all of our sin, guilt and shame and redeemed it on the Cross of Calvary. You can experience new hope and discovery just like the disciples did on that first resurrection day.

In the midst of her grief, Mary did not see that she was talking to Jesus, she thought He was a gardener. She did not recognise that in her time of need, Jesus was right there beside her! Are you in a time of sadness, pain or grief? Maybe you can't feel Jesus with you. Know that He is right beside you. His spirit is with you and will never leave you or forsake you. Jesus died and rose again, and he is with us just as He promised in Matthew 28:30.