Joseph and Jessa I have some new thoughts about Jesus after He rose from the dead. Mary thought he was a gardener when she went before dawn to the tomb... until He called her name. (John 20:15-16) Later that day two disciples on the road to Emmaus didn't know it was Jesus walking with them... until He broke bread to eat. (Luke 24:13-35) Even eight days later, a group of disciples fishing didn't recognize Him... until He gave them a fishing tip that filled up their net. (John 21:1-9)

The chosen disciples reactions to Jesus the evening of his resurrection are priceless. Jesus has to take extra measures to calm them down and establish He who He was. Thomas missed the meeting and it isn't until 8 days later that he meets Jesus face to face. (Luke 24:36- 43) When Jesus saw Thomas He told him to touch His hands and His side. (John 20:25-28) For the first time, I felt sick to my stomach picturing this scene. If Jesus had physical wounds in His hands, feet, and side what did His face look like? (Matthew 27:27-30)

What is the likelihood that Jesus was so bruised and swollen that is why people didn't recognize Him? What if the most distinguishing features Jesus had were the holes in his hands, feet, and His side? The extent of His obedience to fulfill what God asked of Him is a profound example for me! Now when I picture Jesus commissioning ME to tell the world what He did I imagine His beat up face! The image in my mind makes the message even more powerful and personal. He is living proof that nothing Satan throws at me can stop the power of God inside of me!

I John 3:16

This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us.

And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.

Song : Worthy is the Lamb - Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir