God, my Hope
My visit to Rome was intended as a relaxing vacation and it proved to be more. It was a continuous spiritual experience as I walked the streets and entered buildings where religious fervor was continuously on display.
In the Vatican City I visited the Vatican Grottoes where, lying in repose atop each marble sarcophagus was the effigy of a venerated, deceased pope. I walked the silent marble floors entranced. I passed devout worshippers kneeling tearfully in prayer and remembered the experience of Mary Magdalene who centuries before, also knelt weeping at the tomb of Jesus. To her the angel said, Do not weep, “He is not here; for He is risen”. Matthew 28:6.
No sarcophagus for Jesus! Reason?— The Person we seek is in heaven! The Bible vividly describes His resurrection and ascension to heaven where He lives as Mediator to make intercession for us all.
There is more, “This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.” Acts 1:11
Dear Lord, may this message of Truth and hope dry our tears, redirect our gaze to our Mediator, and bring us peace. Amen.
A Wilderness Guidebook . . . 
Thank you, Josephine. You put into simple words what George and I were struggling to express. We are so filled with gratitude for this experience and hope for Jesus’’ soon return.
Chris & George
LikeLike
We just studied this this in Acts in our Friday night Bible study.
LikeLike
June 11, 2023
Thank you Josephine! This message was certainly sent at the when I needed this assurance of the sacrifice of our blessed Saviour. Let us be ready for he is coming soon.
Marilyn
LikeLike