Hän ei ole enää täällä — He is no longer here
The angel’s message to Jesus’ disciples who arrived at the empty tomb was at the same time scary and joyful. In the end, fear gave way and joy won. Shock and dismay left. The resurrection of Jesus soon became a reality for them after he appeared to his followers. After all, everything had happened as it was supposed to, like the scriptures and Jesus himself already had told so.
Each of us who has lost a loved one wishes they were still around among us. Even memories do not replace the presence of a loved one. Death feels like such a final separation. However, Easter tells us that Jesus has won the power of death and sin.
The Easter message is that God is near even when we don’t see him. Faith in Jesus is also faith in eternal life. Not even death can separate us.
The resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ meant to those closest to him, to his disciples his physical absence. However, there was no need for disciples to be content with just remembering Jesus. Through his Holy Spirit, Jesus became into their hearts, and not only into their hearts, but into the hearts of all who believe in Jesus.
Thus, God is close to each of us even today. Although he is gone, he speaks to us through his word and encourages and leads us with his Holy Spirit.
“For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.” 1 Corinthians 13:12
Easter Blessings, Pastor Timo
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