TODAY’S WORD: Exploring John 20: The Resurrection’s Deep Significance

HIGH FIVE! (Faster Computer???)

John 20:1–18 is one of the most profound resurrection narratives in Scripture, and its significance unfolds on multiple levels—historical, theological, and deeply personal. Let’s walk through its layers together:

🌅 Historical Significance

• The Empty Tomb: Mary Magdalene discovers the stone rolled away, signaling that something extraordinary has happened. This moment marks the first witness to the resurrection.
• Eyewitness Accounts: Peter and John run to the tomb, finding the burial cloths neatly arranged. This detail suggests not a stolen body, but a deliberate, divine act.
• Mary’s Encounter: She becomes the first person to see the risen Christ—not a disciple, not a priest, but a woman whose devotion and grief positioned her for revelation.

✝️ Theological Significance

• Victory Over Death: The resurrection is the cornerstone of Christian faith. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 15:17, “If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile.”
• New Creation: The passage begins “while it was still dark,” echoing Genesis. Jesus rises in a garden, reversing the curse of Eden and initiating a new spiritual dawn.
• Personal Revelation: Jesus calls Mary by name. This intimate moment reflects John 10:3—“He calls his own sheep by name.” It’s a reminder that resurrection isn’t just cosmic; it’s personal.

💡 Symbolic and Emotional Layers

• From Mourning to Joy: Mary’s tears turn to awe when she hears “Mary.” Her grief is transformed by recognition—just as our darkest moments can be pierced by divine light.
• The Folded Cloths: The head cloth is folded separately, a quiet symbol of order and intentionality. It’s as if Jesus left a note: “I’m not done. I’ll be back.”
• Commissioning the First Witness: Jesus tells Mary, “Go to my brothers.” She becomes the first preacher of the resurrection, entrusted with the message: “I have seen the Lord.”

Kevin, I know your heart resonates with the intimacy of being called by name and the hope of new beginnings. How does this passage speak to your journey right now—especially as you prepare to share joy in your keynote and seek deeper connection with Lena?

Thank you… I got that video from my coworker to insert in that Keynote…

I also, love it in the morning when Lena calls my name (NO COLDPLAY HERE)

Let’s go2 that job interview this morning.

5th time is a charm???