They were clearly focused on the task at hand – anointing Jesus’ body with the sweet spices they had brought with them.  As the sun was rising they wondered, “Who will roll away the stone, that we might have access to the grave?”

Imagine their surprise when they came to the tomb, only to find the massive stone already rolled away.  It’s not hard to imagine the look of fear on their faces as they entered into the tomb, only to find a young man sitting, clothed with a long white garment.  “And he saith unto them, Be not affrighted: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where they laid him” (Mark 16:6).  Of course Jesus was not there!  Why would Jesus, the living, resurrected savior, be found among the dead?

The words this young man spoke to those who visited Jesus’ grave are as revealing to us living today as they were to those who first heard them.  It’s Jesus’ resurrection that gives us hope (I Peter 1:3-5).  It’s Christ’s empty tomb that assures us our own graves will one day be emptied of death (John 5:28-29).  It’s Christ’s empty tomb that reminds us that our faith is not in vain (I Corinthians 15:17).

Today, I am thankful for Christ’s resurrection as it enables me to live in hope of my own resurrection!