Easter signifies "rebirth." While the season of Lent reminds you to place God's ways, not your appetites, as the guiding principle for your life, Eastertide calls you to feast and rejoice in Jesus' resurrection. It is an invitation to join with the angel at the empty tomb who said, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen" (Matthew 28:5-6).
Jesus' first words at the start of John's Gospel were directed to two men who were following after him: "What are you looking for?" (1:38 NRSV). Jesus didn't break out a sermon, or perform a miracle, or try to prove he was the Messiah. He simply asked a question and then offered an invitation: "Come and see" (verse 39). Jesus' first words after the resurrection, near the end of John's Gospel, were directed at another follower: "Who is it you are looking for?" (20:15). Jesus then revealed himself by saying this follower's name: "Mary" (verse 16). Her response? "I have seen the Lord!" (verse 18).
In Searching for Jesus, a five-session Bible study, bestselling author and pastor Rich Villodas reveals how Jesus is still asking this question to his followers today. Beginning with Jesus' appearance to Mary Magdalene at the empty tomb, you will journey with his followers over the next forty days as Jesus appeared in their midst, walked the road with them, invited them to touch his hands and side, ate with them, and then commissioned them to spread the message of the gospel to the world. In each case, when someone was looking for Jesus--seeking to know that he had risen from the grave and conquered death--he met them in their search and assured them that they would be found in him.
Designed for use with the Searching for Jesus Bible Study Guide plus Streaming Video, sold separately.
