8 The women ran quickly from the tomb. They were very frightened but also filled with great joy, and they rushed to give the disciples the angel’s message.
9 And as they went, Jesus met them and greeted them. And they ran to him, grasped his feet, and worshiped him.
10 Then Jesus said to them, “Don’t be afraid! Go tell my brothers to leave for Galilee, and they will see me there.” – Matthew 28:8-10
Mourning his death, afraid that they too could be captured and killed for being followers of Jesus, and puzzled as to how they will remove the stone in front of the tomb, did not stop women from going to anoint Jesus’ body early Sunday morning. They could have stayed at home, or with the other followers, they had all the reasons not to leave the house, but what a beautiful surprise to find the stone rolled away and Jesus alive!
These women must have had so many emotions that day, from crying of losing a loved one, to excitement upon hearing the angel tell them that Jesus was not dead, to fear that no one would believe what they saw.
Jesus knew these women were happy to hear the news that he was alive, but he also knew they were afraid that others would not believe them. Jesus loved these women so much, he met them where they were and greeted them. He appeared to them to reassure them that he definitely was alive and he wanted them to tell the disciples of his resurrection. He could have appeared instantly to the other followers, he had no need of asking these women to do it for him, but he loved women, believed in women, and knew they were very capable of telling the world that he was alive. “Don’t be afraid! God tell my brothers to leave for Galilee, and they will see me there.” (Matthew 28:10).
What an awesome day to have witnessed the risen Savior!
What an amazing day to know that the person you loved was alive!
What a joyful day to hear Jesus speak your name again!
I can’t wait to see Jesus face to face.
I can’t wait to give him a hug and tell him how grateful I am for all he has done for me.
I can’t wait to hear him call my name and say “Joanne, welcome home!”
