The Third Day

January 30

The events of the Third Day were beyond anything any man could conjure in his imagination. God Incarnate, Jesus Christ, the Hope of Israel had been crucified. The One who many had seen as the Deliverer who would set God’s people free from bondage to Rome had suffered a humiliating public execution.

His closest followers had fled like rats on a sinking ship. The public officials who hated Jesus because they perceived their own power to be threatened if He did, indeed, prove to be the Holy One of God, gloated in their riddance of Him. Those who’d believed they’d found the Messiah wallowed in despair.

But the Third Day, Jesus did exactly what He had said He would do! He arose from the tomb! He defied death, hell, and the grave! The angel rolled the stone away and Jesus emerged—Conqueror of death! Victor over the grave! To the astonishment of those who mourned His death, He appeared—the God of Life! Reports of His resurrection were received with amazement.

Thomas, one of the twelve, expressed the skepticism so many reflect today when he said he couldn’t believe unless he saw the wounds in His hands and side. When Jesus did appear to him, Thomas proclaimed, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus’ response was, “Because you have seen Me, you believe. Blessed are those who have not seen yet believe” John 20:25-29.

May we be among those who believe—whether or not we see—for if we do, we shall surely see Him face-to-face on that great and glorious day!