Today we move forward just a few days from when Jesus was in the Garden. He has been crucified and on the 3rd day comes back to life.
In Matthew 28:1 it says, “. . .Mary Magdalene and the other Mary same to see the tomb.” Jumping forward in verses 2-6 we read, “. . .an angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat on it. . .but the angel answered and said to the women, ‘Do not be afraid for I know that you see Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for He is risen, as He said.’”
At the birth of Jesus, we see a multitude of angels appearing to shepherds. Now, at His resurrection we see angel(s) appearing to Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and according to the other Gospels, other women. It is worth noting we have no record of these nor other angels appearing to any of the men who were followers of Jesus at His resurrection. By sending this angel to the women, God continues to reveal His Gospel and His Kingdom are for everyone – that “in Christ there is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Gal. 3:28.
This angel even gives instructions to the male disciples through the women in verse 7, “And go quickly and tell His disciples that He is risen from the dead, and indeed He is going before you into Galilee; there you will see Him.” And the women ran to bring the disciples word.
Do you tend to doubt and be skeptical? Do you believe the testimony of others or do you have to experience things yourself to believe? Are you more skeptical of a woman’s story, or if you are a woman, that of a man?
Do you know anyone who has said they have seen an angel? Did you believe them? If they tend to be trustworthy, why wouldn’t you? Do you believe in the resurrection of Jesus? If we say we believe in that, then it shouldn’t be too hard to believe that God sends angels, even today!
In Luke 16:31 God says something very interesting, “But he said to him, ‘If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded though one rise from the dead.’” Remember, “We walk by faith, not by sight.” II Cor. 5:7; and “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God.” Rom 10:17.
This week let’s ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any skepticism about God’s supernatural work, including angels. Then let’s replace what He shows us with scripture and be empowered to walk in faith!
