The empty tomb confronts the Myrrhbearing Women with a call to trust:  trust that Jesus—whom they followed, who spoke of God as Father, who obeyed even unto death—has been vindicated by God. His resurrection overturns the judgment of the world and reveals Him as God’s Anointed.

Our loved ones who have fallen asleep are themselves witnesses to Christ’s life, death, and resurrection. Their genuine acts of love and compassion were the works of God shining through them. For when Christians allow God’s love to take hold of them, they are transformed—made capable of a selfless love that is divine in origin. Christian life is a life turned outward, a new way of being with others. This is the life Christ promises.

We will have struggles in our faith, our doubts, and anxiety, but especially this week we are reminded how we who confess to live as Christ lives in in us.