The First Sighting
Daily Rays of Hope #111
The Risen Christ and the Power of a Resurrected Faith
Today’s Scripture:
“Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: ‘I have seen the Lord!’ And she told them that he had said these things to her.”
— John 20:18 (NIV)
Mary Magdalene’s declaration, “I have seen the Lord,” is more than a statement of joy. It is a powerful witness to the truth that Jesus Christ conquered death and rose from the grave. Her experience is the first recorded encounter with the risen Savior, and it marks a turning point in human history. In this moment, the promises of God are fulfilled. Jesus, who said He would rise again, appears alive, glorified, and victorious. This truth is the cornerstone of our Christian faith. Without the resurrection, our faith would be empty. But because He lives, we have hope that never dies.
Jesus' resurrection confirmed everything He taught. In John 11:25, Jesus told Martha, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.” Mary Magdalene’s testimony is the beginning of many appearances that further establish this truth. Jesus would soon show Himself to the other disciples and later to Thomas, who had doubted. In John 20:27, Jesus told Thomas, “Put your finger here. See my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.” Jesus met them in their fear, in their confusion, and in their doubts. He proved that He was alive and that death had no hold on Him.
This resurrection power is not just a historical event. It is alive and active in our lives today. Romans 8:11 says, “And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.” Because He lives, we can live in victory. Because He rose, we are raised into new life with Him.
Mary’s announcement was the first sound of a resurrection gospel that would spread across the world. She encountered the Lord and boldly shared what she had seen. Today, we are invited to do the same. Our encounters with Jesus, our moments of transformation, our quiet reassurances from the Holy Spirit all become part of our witness. We may not see Him in the garden like Mary did, but through the Spirit, we know He is alive. His presence continues to change hearts and lives.
As believers, we are called to hold fast to this truth. First Corinthians 15:14 says, “If Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith.” But He has been raised. And our faith is secure. Our hope is sure. Jesus now sits at the right hand of the Father, making intercession for us and preparing a place for all who believe.
Three Practical Ways to Seek the Will of God Daily and Walk Out This Scripture:
Proclaim Your Testimony.
Like Mary, boldly share how you have seen the Lord move in your life. Your story of transformation and faith can encourage others and point them to Christ.Live in Resurrection Power.
Let the truth of the resurrection shape how you face challenges. Walk in hope, speak life, and choose faith even when situations look dark. You carry the power of new life within you.Draw Near Through Worship and the Word.
Spend time in daily worship and in reading the Word of God. These moments of intimacy open your heart to encounter Jesus and hear His voice just like Mary did that early morning in the garden.
Let this truth settle deeply in your heart today. He is not dead. He is risen. And because of that, we have every reason to rejoice, to believe, and to go out into the world declaring, “I have seen the Lord.”