Matthew 28:5–7 The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.”

Earlier this week, a friend of ours who works on the LWML Board of Directors with Cheryl, Brenda Piester, shared this true story and gave me permission to use it:

I have a set of figurines (think nativity) that are scenes for Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter. Grandkids arrange them and move the people through the scenes as the story is told. Several years ago, Brayden, the son of the man who worked for us, came along on Good Friday since he didn’t have school. He was probably in 5th grade, and I had him help and hang out with me for the day. Since he attended church very little, I read the Easter story to him as he arranged the scene. When finished, I asked if he wanted to tell the story back to me, and he did…all the way to the Easter morning “punch line “– “HOLY C*@P, HE’S GONE!!!” While I was laughing to myself, I assured Brayden that’s not “quite” what the Bible said, but I am sure that those words were probably actually spoken by some people. Yes, He’s gone! He’s risen!

Alleluia!

 The shock and awe of Easter is a powerful thing. Young Brayden put it into words he knew and understood. He conveyed the message the best way he knew how. And it was a powerful proclamation of the resurrection of Jesus.

I think his words can remind us all of just how powerful a message we have to share, not only during this Easter season, but all year long. Jesus is alive. He is Risen. He conquered the sin and death and the grave for everyone. It is a big deal and we should be overwhelmed by this message!

Lord, give us the excitement and enthusiasm of Brayden as we contemplate and share with others the news of Your victory over death. Amen.