Scripture Passage: Matthew 28:2-5

On Easter Sunday, very early in the morning, Mary Magdalene and Mary went to visit Jesus’ tomb. As they were on their way they realized they would have a great problem when they arrived: the stone was in the way. (Mark 16:3)

The stone was a barrier that kept them from the truth about Jesus. In that sense, many of us deal with stones that keep us from life as God intended. Barriers that keep us from trusting God because we lack the truth that would give us the confidence we need. Barriers that we’re powerless to overcome on our own.

Matthew 28:1-7 records that an angel of the Lord descended from heaven, approached the tomb, rolled back the stone, and sat on it. The angel invited the women to set aside the barriers that were keeping them from Jesus. He invited them enter and to see the tomb.

All of the things the women feared indicated that they really believed they were alone. Once they realized they were not alone they had no basis for that fear. When God removes the stone that’s keeping us from seeing the truth, and we understand what has taken place, we can be free from fear.

The stone was rolled away so we can have all the evidence we need to believe that Jesus is risen. Some fear that God is disappointed with them or that something in their past may rob them of their future. God’s message for us is that because of the resurrection of Christ, all the barriers that would keep them from a life in Jesus Christ have been taken away.

Discussion

• What is your stone or fears?  

• Can you see how that stone is keeping you from Jesus? 

• Would you like to experience the transformation Jesus can provide?