Jesus gave proof to his resurrection.
They gave him a piece of broiled fish and some honeycomb. He took it and ate in front of them. Luke 24:42, 43
Have you ever heard a fantastic story? Maybe one connected to fishing, about the big one that got away? As you listen to the story, you cannot help but say, “Do you have a picture of the fish?” It is hard to believe someone without proof that backs up what they said.
Proof is exactly what Jesus gave to his disciples when he appeared to them on Easter night. They all knew he was dead three days before. No one could survive the brutality of the beatings and crucifixion. Plus, the women who traveled with them saw Jesus’ burial. It was those same women who then told them a fantastic story of an empty tomb, a vision of angels, and seeing Jesus standing in front of them. Not only did the women have a fantastic story to tell, but other disciples also had their own story. Two disciples, who were walking from Jerusalem to Emmaus, talked to Jesus all afternoon on the road.
However, these stories seemed too good to be true. Where was the proof? As they were discussing the matter of Jesus’ resurrection, he suddenly appeared even though the doors were locked. You can imagine that they would have been frightened and confused since humans do not just appear out of thin air unless it was a ghost. Jesus understanding his disciples’ fear, asked them if they had any food. He did this to show them that he was in fact alive. His soul and body were reunited after separating on Good Friday.
Jesus showed them proof of his resurrection because he had a mission for them. They were going to be witnesses in the world that Jesus conquered death by rising from the dead. They were going to bring the good news of forgiveness and eternal life to people who desperately need it. That includes you! You can trust their message because Jesus proved his resurrection to them. Jesus is still alive today and he will remain alive. This is the comfort we need every day we get closer and closer to our own deaths. You need not fear death. We have the risen body of Jesus as proof that death cannot win.
Dear risen Savior, thank you for proving your resurrection to your disciples so that they would not be afraid to go and tell the good news. Empower us with your resurrection so that our fears are removed to go and proclaim the good news until you call us home! Amen!