Read Mark 15:42-43 and Mark 16:1-8
The original text ends with verse 8:
"Trembling and bewildered, the women went out and fled from the tomb. They said nothing to anyone, because they were afraid."
Some scholars suggest that Mark left it there on purpose. It is now for the reader to bring closure. You decide how the story goes from there.
DISCUSSION:
What does the resurrection mean to you personally?
What does this compel you to do as you think of your part in how the story goes from here?
Greg focused on three phrases connected to the story:
Going ahead
The angel told the women that Jesus was risen and was going ahead of them into Galilee. Going ahead of the army was what kings did as they moved into new territory
The angel was telling them that it was a new day. Jesus was giving them a new destiny, a new assignment. But he himself was going before them to prepare the way.
DISCUSSION:
What does it mean to you that Jesus has gone before you to prepare a new destiny for you?
How does this affect how you pray for others as you think of Jesus going before them preparing a new destiny?
What new destiny or new assignment do you feel God calling you to?
Trembling and Bewildered
When the women encounter the angel, they are bound with fear and do nothing!
DISCUSSION:
Does fear every paralyze you?
The promise is that God will be there when you need Him. But He will also meet you NOW.
Have you experienced His presence in a tangible way?
And Peter
The angel mentioned Peter by name:
"But go, tell his disciples and Peter 'He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.'" Mark 16:7
Jesus knew that after denying him, Peter would need to know that he had not been disqualified. Grace was deep enough to cover him.
And grace is deep enough for you.
Put your name in this sentence: "But go, tell his disciples and __________, 'He is going ahead of you.'"
A line in the first song sung is: "Shame is a robber and he's come to take my name."
DISCUSSION:
Do you have a regret that is choking the life out of you?
Is there a broken relationship that seems beyond repair? A health issue that threatens your life? A financial crisis that is crushing you?
Is there a family member you want to see come home?
Do you need a resurrection?
This is the beginning of everything new!
He is risen.
He has gone ahead of you and prepared the way for new things and for new assignments
May we live in the grace that His resurrection provided for us!