Here we are in the middle of the holiest of weeks. I make it a habit each year to remind our church family (and myself) to take time to pause at the cross before moving to the empty tomb. We set aside Easter Sunday each year to celebrate the resurrection of the savior and we should do just that!
Jesus, over two centuries ago, began a movement that has changed the world. But his movement has had far more of a crucial impact than on social reform alone. In fact, the social implications are minor compared to the eternal spiritual difference he has made. Jesus rose from the dead, defeating death and conquering sin. Without the resurrection, there would be no hope for us. We are given the opportunity to live resurrected lives when we choose to die to our own desires – to humble ourselves and submit to Jesus’ leadership. That is good news and only possible through the resurrection.
So it is right to celebrate an empty tomb!
But let us not rush past the cross on the way to the empty tomb. There would have been no empty tomb had there not been a horrific cross. Jesus paid a debt we could not pay – our debt!
On this Silent Wednesday (silent because scripture does not record any activity of Jesus on this day of that final week), reflect on the cross. Meditate on the weight of the sin of the world coming to rest at one point in time on one man.
Pause at the cross and remember.
Clay in the Hands 
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