Getting Real with God

Read John 19:31-20:18

"Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: 'I have seen the Lord!' And she told them that he had said these things to her." John 20:18

From Pierced Side to Living Hope

John carefully records the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus so that we may believe. At the cross, there’s no doubt that Jesus truly died. His legs are not broken because He’s already dead, and a soldier pierces His side, bringing a flow of blood and water. John insists on this detail, not to be graphic, but to assure us: Jesus fully entered death for us. Even here, Scripture is fulfilled (Jn 19:36-37) God’s in control, even when all seems lost.

What follows is quiet courage. Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, once fearful and hidden disciples, step forward to care for Jesus’ body.  Jesus is given a proper burial, placing Him in a new tomb. To human eyes, this looks like the end. Hope appears to have been extinguished in a tomb sealed behind a stone.

But early on the first day of the week, everything changes.  The stone is rolled away. The tomb is empty. Confusion gives way to faith as the beloved disciple “saw and believed” (Jn 20:8), even before fully understanding the Scriptures. God’s work often outruns our understanding, calling us to trust Jesus before we see the full picture.

The most tender moment comes with Mary Magdalene. She stands outside the tomb weeping, consumed by grief. Even when Jesus stands before her, she doesn’t recognise Him until He speaks her name: “Mary” (Jn 20:16).  In that moment, sorrow turns to joy. The risen Lord knows His people personally and calls them by name.

Mary becomes the first witness of the resurrection, sent to proclaim, “I have seen the Lord!” (Jn 20:18). The gospel begins not with triumphal crowds, but with tears that turned into testimony.

Jesus is risen – God’s confirmed Jesus speaks the truth – every promise He’s spoken is confirmed as true. Death could not hold Him. He died in our place so that our sin could be forgiven. The promises to all who believe and follow Jesus is that your sins will be forgiven and, like Jesus, you will be raised to eternal life.  Do you believe?

Ian