He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. 
_{Matthew 28:6 NIV}

It’s all complete.
the suffering of a friend’s betrayal
hateful looks of those who despised him
no more tears of sorrow
or cries of pain.

It’s all finished.
the work of salvation
for a world of rejection
sin is defeated
death has no sting.

It’s all done.
a crown of thorns
pierced hands
crushed body
a final breath.

It’s all wrapped up.
lifeless body
laid in the tomb
a stone rolled in place
nothing more to do.

It is finished
all done
death no longer a thing
the tomb is now empty
he is risen indeed.

We received the best news this week, the kind of news that leaves you staring at an empty tomb wondering if it’s true. Could our time in the wilderness be drawing to a close?

I think about Jesus as he finished his time in the desert. The scriptures tell us angels came and attended to him. What about those who experienced firsthand the Messiah’s death and resurrection?

Some rejoiced.
One doubted.
Others wondered what now?

I’m beginning to see the wilderness a little differently these days. Looking back over the last few months, I realize in the midst of the struggle there was joy, peace, light, and hope. I reflect in awe on God’s daily provision, and give thanks for those who held us up in presence and prayer.

Still, I catch glimpses of my wilderness reality. Jesus’ work wasn’t completed in the desert. Nor were the disciples done after the resurrection. There was more life to live. More wilderness wandering. More discoveries to make.

Dare I say… this is the way of living.

The truth is, this world is not my home. Until the day comes when I see Jesus face to face, there will be wilderness wandering. And with each step I take, I discover more of who God is and who I am too.

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This week we enter what the church calls Easter Season. It spans the fifty days between Easter and Pentecost. Join me here on the blog as I consider the question that continues to rise from my heart. What now?