Do Not Be Amazed!

He said to them, “Do not be amazed! -Mark 16:6

The women went to the tomb and saw that the large stone had be rolled away. They saw a young man there, but they didn't see Jesus there. Were they expecting Jesus to be there? Did they not know that he said he would rise after three days?

"Do not be amazed!"

They were looking for the crucified One. They were looking for his dead body. But He wasn't there.

"Do not be amazed!"

How many times do I look for the crucified One instead of the risen One?

How many times do I imagine the worst instead of trusting in His word?

How many times do look for the crucified One but not seek the risen One?

How many times am I amazed when things work out?

But why?

Why am I amazed when I am held and embraced in the arms of my loving Father at all times?

Why am I amazed when prayers are answered. Did I not believe? Did I doubt that He would provide?

I feel as if we are amazed out of a sense of surprise. "Wow, this actually worked out!"

Wait....this actually worked out. What do you mean "actually?"

Did Jesus, not say that "your Father who is in heaven gives good things to those who ask Him!" (Matthew 7:11)

I pray that instead of being amazed, I may be grateful. That instead of being surprised by His goodness, I may see His goodness around me at all times.

But most of all, I pray for faith and I pray, "I do believe, help my unbelief!” Mark 9:24

Jesus, give us faith.