Passage Read: Mark 15-16
Meditation Verse: 16:14
Thought
It's interesting that Jesus appeared to others before He appeared to any of the Eleven. He appeared first to Mary Magdalene, then apparently to the two on the road to Emmaus. Each of these reported their experience to the Eleven, but the Eleven didn't believe. It was too far out of their experience. Despite all Jesus had done to prepare them, they couldn't believe, not until Jesus Himself appeared to them. These were His inner circle, His hand-picked disciples. They knew Him best.
Application
It really takes a miracle to believe the resurrection of Jesus--either Jesus has to appear to a person, or God has to do an amazing work in their heart. My only ability is to proclaim the resurrection of Jesus, forgiveness by His blood, and His return to reign in power. I need to remember that it is God alone who can open the heart to believe. I need courage to proclaim without requiring fruit, but trusting God to do what He desires in the hearts of those who hear me.