I'LL MEET YOU AFTER THE RESURRECTION

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"But after I am raised from the dead, I will go ahead of you to Galilee and meet you there.”  (Mark 14:28)

During the Ozarks Passion Play, an actor performing the part of Jesus was trudging uphill, carrying his cross. From the audience, a man began heckling him. When he persisted, the actor threw down his cross, and walking over, punched the man. Outraged, the director confronted the performer, warning him he would be fired if this happened again. Sure enough, the next day the heckler returned, continuing his verbal tirade. Restraining himself, the actor turned and faced the man. Clenching his teeth he snarled, "I'll meet you after the resurrection." (Adapted from faithlife.com) 

 This questionable story is actually anchored in reality. Prior to his death, Jesus told his followers, "I'll meet you after the resurrection" (Mark 14:28).  His intentions were certainly different from the actor's, but the Bible reports he appeared to his disciples no fewer than 12 times. On one occasion, more than 500 people witnessed his resurrection. Unlike ghost sightings, such as Elvis, Jesus physically showed up, walking, talking, even eating with his followers. 

If each of those 500+ witnesses testified for 15 minutes in a court of law, that would result in 128 hours of testimony. Pretty hard to argue with. Some claim his followers lied, inventing the whole story. But history records that Christ's closest followers endured torturous deaths, yet none of them recanted their testimony. Why would they lie? No one dies for a lie, knowing it's a lie. 

 The appearances of Jesus following his resurrection unquestionably demonstrate that he arose from death. But even more, it brings comfort and power to our daily lives. Jesus still "meets us after the resurrection." He appears to us when we're lonely, sick and broken-hearted. He shows up during times of failure, frustration and fear.  Just as he promised his disciples, when we need him most, he whispers to our hearts, "I'll meet you after the resurrection."

  • When has Jesus met you as the risen Lord?

  • How do you need a fresh encounter with Christ? 

  • What steps can you take to experience the power and love of the resurrected Jesus in a deeper way? 

Barney Cargile