Conclusive Evidence

After several weeks of noticing that lead was being stripped from our Church roof, from December to February, a large quantity of lead was found in a Goldsworth Park garden shed. Three lads were arrested, and admitted to being on the roof on one occasion. However, the quantity of lead is such that it matches all that which was stripped. In my mind, at least, this evidence is conclusive that they took it all.

When the tomb was found to be empty by investigating disciples on Easter Day, apart from the remaining grave clothes, it left them puzzled. So the women rushed back from the tomb to tell his eleven disciples—and everyone else—what had happened. It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and several other women who told the apostles what had happened. But the story sounded like nonsense to the men, so they didn’t believe it. However, Peter jumped up and ran to the tomb to look. Stooping, he peered in and saw the empty linen wrappings; then he went home again, wondering what had happened.' (Luke 24.9-12)

But when Jesus appeared in locked rooms, and enjoyed eating food with them, the evidence was conclusive. 'Then the two from Emmaus told their story of how Jesus had appeared to them as they were walking along the road, and how they had recognized him as he was breaking the bread. And just as they were telling about it, Jesus himself was suddenly standing there among them. “Peace be with you,” he said. But the whole group was startled and frightened, thinking they were seeing a ghost!

“Why are you frightened?” he asked. “Why are your hearts filled with doubt? Look at my hands. Look at my feet. You can see that it’s really me. Touch me and make sure that I am not a ghost, because ghosts don’t have bodies, as you see that I do.” As he spoke, he showed them his hands and his feet. 

Still they stood there in disbelief, filled with joy and wonder. Then he asked them, “Do you have anything here to eat?” They gave him a piece of broiled fish, and he ate it as they watched.' (Luke 24.35-43)

I am so grateful that the stories we have about Jesus being raised to new life have conclusive evidence that demonstrates beyond reasonable doubt that Jesus is alive. That means that I may live today trusting him to 'walk with me and talk with me along life's narrow way' (as the old song goes!).

And with the living Jesus with me, many things become possible which would not be if I were on my own. That will then produce more evidence that Jesus is alive!

Best wishes,

Richard