“He is not here; He has risen!” – Luke 24:6
The resurrection of Jesus is the most powerful and hope-filled event in human history. It’s more than just a story for Easter Sunday—it’s the moment everything changed.
So what actually happened that first Resurrection Sunday?
Let’s walk through the key moments, step by step.
1. Early Morning: The Stone Was Rolled Away
Just before dawn, a group of women—Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, Joanna, and others—made their way to Jesus’ tomb. They were carrying spices to anoint His body, still grieving and confused after His crucifixion.
To their surprise, the stone was rolled away, and the tomb was empty.
Two angels appeared and declared words that changed history:
“Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; He has risen!” (Luke 24:5-6)
2. The Race to the Tomb
The women rushed to tell the disciples. At first, the men didn’t believe them—understandably so. But Peter and John sprinted to the tomb. They found it empty too, with the grave clothes folded neatly.
Something was happening… but they didn’t yet understand.
3. Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene
Mary Magdalene lingered near the tomb, weeping. She saw someone she thought was the gardener—until He called her name.
“Mary.”
She turned and cried out, “Rabboni!” (John 20:16)
It was Jesus. Alive. Real. Standing before her.
He told her to go tell the others: “I am ascending to My Father and your Father.”
She became the first witness to the risen Christ.
4. On the Road to Emmaus
That afternoon, two discouraged disciples were walking to the village of Emmaus. A stranger joined them and began explaining the Scriptures, showing how the Messiah had to suffer and rise.
At dinner, when He broke the bread, their eyes were opened—it was Jesus! (Luke 24:31)
They ran back to Jerusalem to tell the others.
5. Evening: Jesus Appears to the Disciples
That evening, the disciples were hiding behind locked doors, afraid.
Suddenly, Jesus stood among them.
“Peace be with you.”
He showed them His hands and side. He was no ghost. He was alive—bodily, powerfully, gloriously.
He breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit.”
6. One Disciple Still Doubts
Thomas missed that first meeting and wouldn’t believe until he saw for himself.
Eight days later, Jesus came again and invited Thomas to touch His wounds.
“Stop doubting and believe.”
Thomas responded with a confession of faith:
“My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28)
So Why Does This Matter Today?
The resurrection is not just a historical fact—it’s a personal invitation.
It means Jesus conquered death—not just for Himself, but for all who believe in Him.
It means your sins can be forgiven, your shame erased, and your future secure.
It means that no matter how dark Saturday feels, Sunday is coming.
Final Thought
I’ve walked with Jesus for many years now, and I’ve seen Him bring resurrection hope to the darkest places—in hearts, families, churches and even countries.
If you’re in a season that feels like Friday’s cross or Saturday’s silence, hold on.
The stone rolls away. Jesus still shows up. And when He does, He speaks peace to your fears.
He is risen—and because of that, so can you.
Blessings,
Mark Cole
