Pastor Jon gave the message this week from John 20:1-18. His message centered on 3 things: laundry, scars, and a first name.
Regarding laundry (vs. 6-7), Jon showed us the significance of the folded linens in Jesus’ tomb after his resurrection. The fact that scripture notes that the linens were folded is specific and unique. If thieves had broken in to steal the body, surely they would have left the linens in tatters or ruin. If friends had broken in to steal Jesus’ body, surely they wouldn’t have desecrated his body by removing the linens. No, the linens were folded and left in the place where Jesus’ body had been - this is significant and invites the hearers of this story to reason and search for meaning.
Pastor Jon also shared with us a story from his UCLA history professor to illustrate the reality that the best historical evidence that exists does in fact point to the validity of Jesus’ bodily resurrection. If you are someone who has more questions or find yourself curious about much of the trustworthiness of such claims or other big questions, we have a class we will be launching soon we would love for you to consider participating in - it is called Alpha. We can’t wait to share more with you soon!
Regarding the scars, Pastor Jon shared with us the story of Thomas found in John 20:24-29. The story of Jesus imitating towards Thomas in the middle of his doubt shows the empathy of Jesus. It also shows us that those who have doubts in their faith are very welcome in the church and as followers of Jesus. The church is to meet you where you are at. At Redeemer we aim to proclaim the truth of Jesus and meet you where you are at, not where you should be.
Once Thomas sees and feels the crucifixion scars of Jesus, he proclaims, “My Lord and my God!” Thomas now knows that Jesus is truly King - his words have power and there are implications to this truth for Thomas’ life and for our own.
Regarding a first name, Pastor Jon taught us the significance of Jesus speaking to Mary (vs. 11-16). The parallel gospel account of Mark 16:1-8 gives greater context to this interaction. When Mary is at the tomb she is confused at first with who she is interacting with, but it is only after Jesus speaks her name that she knows who he is. He is the Rabboni! Her teacher!
What is more, in this moment of history, society didn’t give women the opportunity to testify as witnesses, but Jesus speaks to Mary before any other. Not only this, but he appointed her to go and tell the others. In a culture that didn’t give women a voice, Jesus’ chosen first witness of his resurrection is a woman.
Jesus is alive. Jesus understands you and he meets you where you are. If you feel marginalized, oppressed, cut off, or doubtful Jesus fully knows you and he fully loves you. Because Jesus is alive, we have hope. Though there is still brokenness, there will come a day when it is right. There is pain right now, but we have Jesus.
May you have the hope of Jesus.
