January 10, 2009 - Greeting From Jesus!

Meditation on Matthew 28

As the Sabbath after Jesus' burial began to finish and the first day of the week (Sunday) began to dawn, there was a great earthquake. An angel of the Lord came to roll away the stone that sealed the tomb of Jesus and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning and his clothing white as snow. The guards shook for fear of him and became like dead men. But the angel told the women not to be afraid, that Jesus was not there for He had risen, and gave them instruction to tell the disciples the news and to meet Jesus at Galilee. While they ran to tell the disciples, Jesus met them and said, "Greetings!" (v. 9)

This was the first greetings after Jesus' resurrection. This must also be the greatest greeting for them to receive. The literal meaning of the Greek word Matthew used for "Greetings" was rejoice. How happy they should be to see Jesus. So it is for us today who have received Jesus as our personal Savior and Lord by faith to rejoice because He is risen from the dead.

The guards were bribed by the chief priests to tell others that the disciples had stolen Jesus' body while they slept. This lie was unbelievable because it was death penalty for a Roman guard who felt asleep on the job. Besides, how could all of the guards be sleeping?

In Matthew's final account, Jesus met with His disciples and gave them the solemn instruction of the Great Commission. They were to make disciples of all nations as they went, baptizing them and teaching them to observe all things that Jesus had commanded them. Jesus promised His presence with them to the end of the age. From the context, this assurance then should be for all the disciples of all ages.

As we obey the risen Savior, I believe He will be with us and wants us to rejoice in Him. He will take away our sorrow and heartaches. He will supply us with joy and provide for our needs just in time as we serve Him. He is alive. He knows your condition.