John 20:1-18

"We do not gather at Easter to celebrate the doctrine of the Resurrection. We come here to rejoice in the presence of one we love; in Jesus who was dead and has been raise to Life."

According to John's gospel it's Mary Magdelene who interprets this as a disaster: the stone has been rolled away from the mouth of Jesus' tomb.

Finding Dirty Laundry

Both Simon Peter and John notice that the expensive linen wrappings and the head shroud placed over Jesus' face are still present. These remnants are left in two separate locations -- the head cloth rolled up in one place, the linen body wrappings pushed off into another corner.

These are signs of LIFE, not death. John saw and believed that Jesus is the BRIDE from death to life.

Angels in White

Where the disciples see dirty linen, Mary sees angels.

In the exact place where the disciples saw only discarded cloth, Mary sees instead heavenly messengers!

The angels ask her "Why sorrow on such a joyful, miraculous day?"

The angels points to Jesus' obvious absence from the tomb, announcing, "He is not here. He is Risen!"

Not a Dead Prophet, Not Dirty Laundry, Not Angels in White, But a Living Savior!

The only thing powerful enough to shake us free from our self-absorbed despair is nothing less than the Risen Christ himself. Not until Jesus calls Mary by name does she snaps out of her gloom and awakens to the miracle of Easter morning.

How many signs that Jesus is a living presence in your daily existence have you missed?

"Our Easter faith is that we really do encounter Jesus himself." Do YOU believe in Easter?

Because the tomb is empty your life can be full, so go into every place and every day as people brimming with the love of God. Be graceful in spirit, hopeful in word, faithful in deed.

Alleluia and Amen!