Mark 16:9 – When Jesus rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had driven seven demons. (NIV)
A carpenter by trade, Earl read the signed note with great interest, because he recognized the names. "This little rose was given to me on our first-month anniversary. I hung it inside this wall with the hope that all who live in this apartment will be as happy as we have been."
This dear little note protected an oh-so-dried-up red rose. To his delight, the two people mentioned still lived in the community. Better yet, they were still married. Hugs and tears of joy followed when he hand-delivered the flower!
Another person might have ignored the rose, or called it junk and tossed it. However, Earl recognized it for what it was: love.
Jesus rose from the dead. Some deny it. Some refute it. Others leave the resurrection hanging where they found it — no decision for them.
But others see that Jesus Rose and understand the message. And they pass it on.
Have you seen the Jesus Rose for yourself?
John 3:16 – For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. (NIV)
Prayer: Lord, thanks for giving us Your Son, the Jesus Rose, the emblem of Your love. Make Him real to us again today. Amen.