Easter is always connected with the Jewish Passover. The passover is a symbol of the blood being applied and the angel of the Lord passing over those who had the blood applied. Of course most of us know the Easter story and its significance; however, I wonder how often we stop and think about the massive impact it has upon our lives, our peace and our eternal hope.

Had Jesus only died, we would not have forgiveness for our sins. However, he also was buried, and he arose on the third and appointed day. His resurrection provides for us our salvation, our satisfaction and our security.

The Bible tells us in Luke 24:1-3, “Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came unto the sepulchre, bringing spices which they had prepared, and certain others with them. And they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre. And they entered in, and found not the body of the Lord Jesus.”

I would like for you to consider with me the phrase: “They found the stone rolled away.” This little sentence may seem so insignificant, but packed within it is a golden nugget for us to ponder.

Within this statement is a promise fulfilled, a pardon furnished, and a proclamation to be foretold. When they found the stone rolled away, what did they find?

First, they found the stone of doubt rolled away. The Lord had told the people several times that after his death, he would arise on the third day. They all doubted his words. They did not believe him when he told them that if they destroyed the temple, he would raise it back up in three days. They were filled with doubt.

But, when they found an empty tomb, all doubt was removed. They found he was a man of his word. Now as we know, Thomas doubted the resurrection of the Lord. However, when the Lord came to where he was, all doubt was removed for him as well.

We, too, can have the stone of doubt removed in our lives. How? By entering into his presence. Why? Because the Lord is alive, and he will always be true to his word. He is the same yesterday, today and forevermore.

Second, they found the stone of darkness rolled away. We are told as the Lord hung upon the cross that darkness covered the earth. Then as his disciples placed him in Joseph’s tomb, it had to be a very dark day for them. Their leader, their Lord, the one they had seen perform miracles, heal the sick and raise the dead had now become a victim to death as well. However, this is not the end of the story. He arose! His resurrection caused the darkness to flee and for a new day to come forth.

Because he lives we do not have to live a life of darkness. We can live in the light as he is light. Because he lives, we have joy, peace and contentment. Thank God the stone of darkness has been rolled away.

Lastly, they found the stone of death rolled away. I serve a living Lord. No matter what the critics may say, he did rise, he sits on the right hand of the Father and he is making intercession for his children. Through his salvation, I have everlasting life.

What a great day it must have been when the disciples of Jesus found the stone rolled away. At that moment, they knew his word was true.

This gives us assurance in our lives today as well. We know that he has risen, and we know he’s alive. Therefore we can rely on his word that he will come again for those who have accepted him.

Rest assured he is coming soon. Therefore, don’t allow your life to be hindered by a stone. Look to Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. The stone has been rolled away and our Savior lives!