In Israel, there are two sites that claim to be Golgotha and the tomb of Joseph of Arimathea where Jesus was buried. Both have archaeological facts to prove their claim. The good news for Christians is that the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Garden Tomb have empty tombs. This means that Jesus has risen from the dead.
In John 11:25-26, Jesus said to Martha, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?”
What does it mean that Jesus is the resurrection and the life? What is the meaning of this claim of Jesus?
First, it is an identity claim by Jesus.
Jesus claimed to be the source of eternal life and the one who can raise people from the dead. Who can claim this? Only God can claim that identity. If Jesus can claimed this, then it means that Jesus is God.
By declaring Himself as the resurrection and the life, Jesus is offering assurance to believers that they will have eternal life through Him.
Second, Jesus claims to have an authority over death.
Jesus is asserting his authority over death and the power to conquer it. He is the source of new life and the one who has the power to give people eternal life.
We can give out a letter of authorization or a special power of attorney. But can you give out a special power of attorney over death and life? No. Only Jesus has that authority.
By declaring himself as the resurrection and the life, Jesus is demonstrating his power over death. This can bring comfort and assurance to all Christians who are facing death, and the family of loved ones who have died.
Third, in Jesus, we have hope for the future.
The declaration of Jesus offers us hope of eternal life and the possibility of being reunited with their loved one in the future. This can bring peace and comfort in the face of loss and grief.
Do you want to be reunited with your loved ones? Then give your life to Jesus.
The words of Jesus affirm that death is not the end, but rather a transition to a new life. This can help us conquer the fear of death and provide comfort during difficult times.
We all fear death because it is an unknown. This is the reason why Jesus said that we should not fear because He has conquered death already.
Let us rejoice because the tomb is empty!
May God bless us all!
Sincerely,
Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on
Director, Office of Communications