Is it the Third Day?

“From that time on Jesus began to explain to his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life.” Matthew 16:21 (NIV)

Arise and shine, dear one! God is with you!

“Is it the third day, Mom?” My youngest son, Levi, was just waking up in the morning and I could tell he was excited for our upcoming visit to the pool. He knew we were counting down days and on the third day of the week, we would be leaving on our trip. His question made me wonder, what were the disciples feeling when they were waiting for the third day to come?

Until I took time to read through the Bible, I didn’t notice how intentional Jesus was in explaining His coming death and resurrection to His disciples. Even after what He told them about what was going to happen, they still didn’t seem to get it. Peter goes on to declare, “Never, Lord! This shall never happen to you!” (Matthew 16:22) Peter didn’t see the bigger picture of God’s ultimate plan for salvation for us all.

How often do we not see the bigger plan? We want immediate results, don’t want to suffer, and find it difficult to wait when we can’t see what’s happening behind the scenes. God is at work, even when we don’t see it. We can trust His plans and His timing. Even though the disciples didn’t fully understand what Jesus was explaining to them, He was preparing their hearts for what was to come.

In a few weeks we will be celebrating the resurrection of Jesus on that best third day of all! How can you prepare your heart as we remember what our Savior has done? You may choose to read through Jesus’ final days before His death and resurrection, thanking Him for His ultimate sacrifice. You may teach your children in your home, neighborhood, or church the meaning of what we’re really celebrating (it’s not about a bunny!) God may prompt you to invite someone to church with you. Whatever it is you choose to do to prepare, be bold and do it! That third day is coming, dear one!