not in places of death
“Once inside, they couldn’t find the body of the Master Jesus. They were puzzled, wondering what to make of this. Then, out of nowhere it seemed, two men, light cascading over them, stood there. The women were awestruck and bowed down in worship. The men said, “Why are you looking for the Living One in a cemetary? He is not here, but raised up.” (Luke 24:4-5)
Obviously, it seems we know why the women went to the tombs: it was where Jesus was buried. But when they didn’t find him, angels appeared and proclaimed: why come to a cemetary to find him? He doesn’t belong here. He’s alive.
That’s us, isn’t it? We think we know where God is, think we know the places that give us life. Yet, in our pursuit of these things - money, power, fame, status - we realise life is never found here. Many of our horizons reside in tombs of death, places that hold no life, give no life, and only serve to expire, not inspire.
Every day, I am faced with this question: choose life or choose death? It sounds easy, but my actions only reflect a more complicated choice. Often, I visit places that have no life because it brings up momentary feelings from the past. Instead of coming face-to-face with the present, I choose to reminisce about short-term pleasures. There’s no life in my sin, no life in the praises of men, no life in living to please myself. Yet, I visit this grave time and time again.
It’s time I choose life. What brings me life? What inspires me? Where are the places where the Living One can be found? I know I’m very much a ‘soul person’ - someone who needs to be inspired daily, who feels empty rather often, who craves for moments so much greater than what I myself can conjure. I want life. Life that lasts. Life that permeates every part of my being.
Oh Lord, forgive me. Forgive me for looking for you in places of death, for returning to tombs that don’t carry your life. I’m so easily swayed Father.
Teach me to choose life. To make choices of the Spirit. To turn my eyes on Jesus. And the things of this earth will grow strangely still, in the light of your glory and grace.
Hallelujah. You live Lord. Inspire me. Amen.
