Come and See. Go and Tell
Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead.
Matthew 28:5–7
Early Easter morning, faithful women who had followed Jesus went to his tomb to care for his body, but instead were startled by an earthquake and an angel. No wonder the angel said, "Do not be afraid." Any one of us would have been shocked.
The angel wasn’t speaking platitudes or merely trying to ease their surprise. His message was compelling. "I know why you’re here. You seek Jesus who was crucified. But you won’t find his corpse. His word was true. He is risen. Come and see his resting place. It’s empty!"
They didn’t need to fear the angel or the signs around the tomb. More importantly, they didn’t need to fear sin, death, or God’s wrath. It was all swallowed up in victory. Jesus is risen! His work is complete.
The angel’s next words urge the women to move beyond fear and wondering. “Now that you have seen, go and tell his disciples.” They needed the good news too. "Don’t keep it to yourself."
We have known our own fears – especially through the past year. Today, hear the voice of the angel: "Do not fear! He is risen! Come and see!"
Come and see his empty tomb and know what it means. Christ is risen for you.
Now hear his call: Go and tell others. Jesus lives for them too!
Happy Easter!
Steven P. Mueller, S.T.M., Ph.D.
Chief Mission Officer
Professor of Theology & Dean of Christ College