Each gospel has their own way of telling the Easter story but there are similarities between each version, mostly they dont think this could happen. Whether they are filled with fear or sadness or they have very realistic concerns, “Who will roll away the stone?” Each story relays the idea that Jesus is most certainly still dead and they will find his body when they get to the tomb.

In John’s version its peculiar what is seen and what isnt seen. All three of the visitors enter the tomb but only Mary see the angels. Mary sees Jesus but she thinks he’s the gardener. It isnt until Jesus says her name that she recognizes him. 

Focusing on the verbs can be a fun exercise when looking at a bible story. In this version of the Easter story there is a lot of seeing going on. Mary sees the stone rolled away, the disciples see the grave clothes, Mary sees Jesus but she also doesnt see him. When Jesus speaks is when she realizes he is alive. If we go back to the creation story God speaks creation into existence. “God said, let there be light.” The spoken word can be very powerful, both for good and to harm. Not only does Jesus say her name he gives Mary a message to share with the others, “I am ascending…” Mary returns to the disciples and tells them that she has seen the Lord. 

What message do we have to share? What message has been shared with us? How does that message bring hope to those who worry all hope is lost?