Beyond the Weekend

April 6 | Where Have You Been?

April 6, 2015

Text: Luke 24.1-24

“Are you the only one visiting Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?” – Luke 24.18

Circumstances surrounding the crucifixion and Jesus’ alleged resurrection turned Jerusalem upside down. Everyone would’ve been glued to the latest news of this man claiming to be the Son of God.

When Jesus arrived riding on a donkey, crowds immediately gathered to parade him into the city amid shouts of worship. Taking up residency in the temple courts, he spoke with authority and enraged the religious leaders. Even with Friday’s arrest and public trials, the mobs continued to grow.

Commotion and congestion filled the city as the fierce roar of the words, “Crucify him, crucify him” echoed through the streets. The entire city witnessed Jesus carrying a cross as he made his way to the hill called Calvary. As he spoke his last words, darkness swept over the sky, the earth shook and heavy sadness enveloped the city. The temple curtain tore in two and tombstones broke open (Matthew 27.50-52).

Friday’s events left no visitor ignorant. Thus, Sunday’s rumors must have spread like wildfire. Not only did Jesus’ disciples claim to have seen Jesus raised to life, many witnessed other appearances of dead people returning in resurrected form (Matthew 27.53).

It’s no surprise the men in today’s reading are discussing the happenings in Jerusalem, nor is it shocking when Cleopas turns and in essence asks Jesus, “Where have you been?” If you’d been in Jerusalem during those seven days, consider how you would’ve spread the news. Write a Facebook post or Tweet to describe what you witnessed in Jerusalem and use #ABCEaster2015 @adabible to share it with our community.

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