Wednesday, April 23’s devotional. The angels’ words pierced the silence of the empty tomb: “Why are you looking for the living among the dead?” (Luke 24:5, CSB). They weren’t offering a rebuke; they were delivering a reminder. Mark Penrith points out, “Wonder as the angels point to Christ’s prophecy of His death and resurrection.” In the midst of confusion, they called the women to remember. They called them back to the living Word.
The angels continued, “He is not here, but he has risen! Remember how he spoke to you when he was still in Galilee, saying, ‘It is necessary that the Son of Man be betrayed into the hands of sinful men, be crucified, and rise on the third day'” (Luke 24:6-7, CSB). Mark explains, “The implication here is that they should have expected the resurrection of Jesus.” The cross wasn’t a defeat. It was a fulfillment. Every word spoken by Jesus had proven true.
How often we forget what God has said! Mark reminds us that “the Son of Man’s resurrection was seen in the light of Daniel 7:13-14, as indications of Jesus’ humanity and deity.” God’s promises are never idle words. They are anchors, sure and steady, even when the waves of life batter us with fear and doubt.
The angels didn’t tell the women to find new evidence. They didn’t demand more faith. They simply said, “Remember.” Mark highlights how “Luke 24:8 alludes to Luke 9:22, 43b-45, 18:31-34,” moments when Jesus had plainly foretold His death and resurrection, but the disciples had not grasped it. Now, on the third day, clarity begins to dawn through remembrance.
How well do we remember and cling to God’s Word when confusion reigns? Psalm 119:105 declares, “Your word is a lamp for my feet and a light on my path” (CSB). In the darkness of despair, the Word lights the way. The angels call us to trust not what we see, but what He has said.
Lord Jesus, help us to remember Your words when our hearts are afraid. Teach us to trust that every promise You make is true. Root our lives in the certainty of Your voice. Amen.
This devotional content is not penned by the preacher. It is derived from the sermon notes. We aim to provide bite-sized reflections throughout the week for devotion and reflection.