Main Thought
On the morning of the resurrection, Mary Magdalene and a few other women ventured forth to visit the tomb of Jesus. They discovered that the stone was rolled away and the tomb was empty. Thus, the search for Jesus began. Peter, John, and Mary each responded differently as they searched. Peter was puzzled. John paused. Mary was pained. These responses reflect the ways we often approach our own search for Christ.
It can be difficult to see God in moments of confusion, disappointment, or grief. Yet Jesus dealt with the root of sin and suffering through His death and resurrection. Our sins can be forgiven. Our hope is secure. Each person who encountered the risen Jesus was invited to respond in faith. The same invitation stands for us today. As we take new steps toward Him in faith, we discover that life awaits all who believe.
Main Passages
1 Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance. 2 So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don’t know where they have put him!”
- John 20:1-2, NIV
14 At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus. 15 He asked her, “Woman, why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?” Thinking he was the gardener, she said, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him.” 16 Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means “Teacher”). 17 Jesus said, “Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’” 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 20:14-18
31But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.
- John 20:31, NIV
Discussion Questions
Peter was puzzled, John paused, and Mary was pained. Which of these responses do you most relate to in your current season? How does that shape the way you seek Jesus?
What do you think it means to find life in God?
What is one practical step you can take to know God more?