Easter has come and gone, yet my thoughts keep returning to a passage read several days ago. Let’s revisit the tomb today …
When the Sabbath was over, a few headed to the tomb with some spices. Arising very early, probably just around sunrise, their intent was to anoint the body. Talking among themselves, they asked one another:
“Who will roll away the stone for us from the entrance of the tomb?” (Mark 16:3, NASB)
They knew before heading out that the tomb had already been sealed with a large stone, which would be impossible for women to move. Only as they were on their way did they realize their dilemma.
But arriving, they saw that the stone had been rolled away.
I have gone back to read the account several times and marveled at this question. But are we any different than those at the tomb on that early morning? Not sure.
We often question the dilemmas we face in our lives. Who will help us, change them, or roll them away?
On that early morning, the women discovered their dilemma was already resolved:
“Looking up, they saw that the stone had been rolled away, although it was extremely large.” (Mark 16:4, NASB)
“The angel rolled away the stone from Jesus’ tomb, not to let the living Lord out, but to let unconvinced outsiders in.” (Donald Barnhouse)
We can so easily forget or overlook that God goes before us. He goes before us and make the rough places smooth. He changes the hearts of people, He changes circumstances, and He changes us as well.
“Cast your burden upon the Lord and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken.” (Psalm 55:22, NASB)
“Each burden we have to carry has once been laid on the shoulders of Immanuel.” (Charles H. Spurgeon)
The question still being asked –
“Who will roll the stone away for us?”
The answer remains – Jesus.
Last week Jennifer shared two posts which shared a common theme: Kindness. In her post, “What Causes Compassion Fatigue“, she offered this wisdom: “Kindness goes along way, we need to be kind to each other, as well ourselves!” In the other post, “How to Deal With Sadness”, was this tidbit: “So let us be kind to ourselves when we feel sad & grieving.” Both posts are well worth your time so just click on the titles.
Come, sit a spell. Bring your coffee, your posts, and your thoughts. If you link up, kindly visit those who have drawn up a seat around you.
Photo by Zoltan Tasi on Unsplash
Today I may be joining …
That’s so true, Joanne. We can anticipate all kinds of problems and obstacles, only to find the details are already taken care of. I’m thankful God goes before us as well as with us.
Easter brings us so many reminders not only of all Christ has done, but of all He continues to do each day in our lives.
“We can so easily forget or overlook that God goes before us. He goes before us and make the rough places smooth.” Joanne, I like how you connected this even with our lives today.
This year I felt like the Lord was showing me that Easter is a past, present, and yet to come event.
Joanne, this is lovely. I’ve been enamored by the Crucifixion story moreso this season. I love this>>”He goes before us and make the rough places smooth. He changes the hearts of people, He changes circumstances, and He changes us as well.”
Thank you for hosting dear friend.
The Cross is at work in our lives each and every day in ways we may not always be aware. He brings much hope into our circumstances!
Joanne, we need this reminder! We can always rest in His care, following our Good Shepherd, trusting where He guides He will provide.
Thank you Joanne for the features sweet friend!
That was a lovely surprise this morning!
He indeed shoulders our burdens.
Blessings, Jennifer
Oh, you have me thinking – the women asked a question that a group of men wouldn’t ask because they probably could have moved the stone. What encouragement that God recognizes the obstacles faced by women – and finds a way for us, too. In our God-designed weakness, we don’t have to worry. God doesn’t expect us to be as strong as men. As you say, God resolved their question – and allowed them to be Message Bearers for The Resurrection. I think this is such a good quote for the challenges of our times – Shalom, Joanne! ~ Maryleigh
Thank you for this gentle reminder, Joanne, that we can always trust Him – no matter what the situation or the task before us.
Such a lovely post, Joanne. I definitely find myself working on turning to God first, giving him my issues, and remembering that he is merciful and trustworthy. I wish you and family a joyous Easter season.<3
God goes before us. What reassurance.
“He goes before us and makes the rough places smooth.” Time and again I’ve seen God do that! Yet I still revel in such reassurance, because each new situation raises the question, “How will THIS stone be rolled away?” And doubts can start to niggle. Thank you, Joanne, for reaffirming that our God is 100% trustworthy to see us through whatever we face!
Dear Joanne, there are some HUGE stones that need moving in the lives of some of my nearest and dearest. Your words are a gift of comfort and hope to me this evening. Bless you for listening to the prompting of His Spirit as you lifted your pen.
Joanne, I’m late in reading this, but considering how much I need this message today, perhaps I’m right on time! Thank you, friend …