Beyond the Weekend

April 25 | Our Tears

April 25, 2019

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means “Teacher”).  John 20:16

Read: John 20:11-18

Listen: John 20

TODAY’S MESSAGE

Mary Magdalene stands at the tomb weeping. Jesus had revolutionized her life. Luke tells us that Jesus had cast seven demons out of her (Luke 8:2-3). Consider what having seven demons cast out of you would do to you. Her life changed dramatically—so she begins following him and supporting him financially.

Jesus pulled Mary Magdalene from the pit. Now his death seems to put her back in despair. As she stands at the tomb, she encounters who she thinks is a gardener and they talk. Then, he says her name. His resurrection wipes away her tears and restores her hope. She rushes to the disciples and tells them Jesus is alive!

Jesus twice pulls Mary out of despair and sadness. He gives her hope for a better future. It is an interaction with the same resurrected God that can pull us out of our despair and sadness as well.

Just like Mary, God calls us by name. He wants to reveal himself to us. His power over death provides hope that is greater than our deepest sorrows. We can cling to a secure future where “He [God] will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away” (Revelation 21:4).

IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY

Think about where you place your hope. Is it your next vacation, a better job, a future spouse or a secure retirement? What do you think will take away your sadness? Confess that to God and ask him to help you to cling to the hope only he provides.


Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.

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