“Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance.” John 20:1
During this year’s Easter season, my church choir prepared a musical presentation that included drama and a large constructed tomb on the right side of the sanctuary. One evening after services, I jumped up and raced toward the tomb to visit the water fountain immediately behind, only to realize that the “stone” was not rolled away and I was blocked. Without thinking, I blurted out, “The tomb is in my way!”
Although said in haste, I slowly realized that following God is always about the tomb getting in the way. You see, the tomb represents several things, starting with a symbol of God’s incredible love for us. It’s rather humbling to think that God, through his son Jesus, died so that our sins and messes would never be counted against us.
The tomb represents hope. Technically, the tomb should have held Jesus, but the power of God moved a heavy stone and brought a dead body back to life because God wanted to give us hope through his larger plan. He also wanted to remind us that he is a God who specializes in the impossible. Every day, he moves stones/challenges (big and small) to put us on the right path.
In short, it’s actually a good thing to live as if the tomb is in the way, because we want the tomb to keep us focused on the heart and sacrifice of our loving Lord.
Dear God, help me to live in the hope of a tomb that could not hold you in the grave.
Dr. Lori Brown is an educator and believer who writes for the academic and faith-based sector. You can find more of her weekly inspirations and speaking ministry information on Facebook.