Jesus says, “Come!”

By Dr. Craig Rikard
 
In John 20 the apostle John reminds us it was still dark when Jesus rose. Mary found the empty tomb before the morning sun appeared.
 
There are too many who feel as though they live in the shadows and darkness. Perhaps they assume their sins are too overwhelming, even for God to forgive. Some just don't have a great knowledge of Christianity and church. Thus, they feel uncomfortable on Easter amid the joyful hymns, prayers, and shouts of Hallelujah. For whatever reason, some feel discomfort on Easter. Remember, though, Jesus was raised in the dark where many of us feel we live. However, Easter is for you and all of us. 
 
Though celebrated by Christendom throughout the world. Easter is a very personal experience. Yes, Jesus rose for the world, but Christ also rose for YOU! 
 
Initially there were three people in the garden that first Easter morning. Two disciples raced to the empty tomb in response to Mary's news. I am almost certain at least one of them, Peter, is present to see if someone had stolen the body. He refused to believe Jesus' death had any redemptive merit. It is for this reason and knowledge of his own betrayal that he left Jerusalem for Galilee to be alone. 
 
The other disciple is believed to have been John. He too was bewildered by Mary's news. However, John did not abandon Jesus on the cross. He possessed a loving, loyal connection with Jesus through the passion. Maybe he is there for the same reason as Peter: someone may have stolen the body. Yet, through his love he might have believed the story of Jesus wasn't over. 
 
Mary had returned out of extreme grief and sorrow. She believes Jesus is dead, but she feels as though "she must do something." Her heart is filled with too much grief to do nothing.
 
Whatever their reasons for being there, it doesn't matter. The story of the empty tomb invites all to come for whatever reason we carry. Some of us may be like Mary. We have suffered losses in life that make God feel so very far away. Come! Some, like Peter, have had their faith tried and tested or can relate to the shame he felt. Come! Some, like John have faith yet feel their faith is incomplete because they feel a need to find out more to experience hope. Come!
 
Jesus rose to meet each of us where we are, for the eternal purpose of drawing us unto himself and giving us eternal hope.
 
One of the more beautiful moments in John's narrative occurs when Jesus calls Mary by name. This is that personal touch of the Gospel. God is calling each of us, personally, to step out of the shadows and experience Easter morning in all of its glory and truth! God is calling you to come.

Dr. D. Craig Rikard is a retired South Georgia pastor. Email him at craigrikard169@yahoo.com.