Have you ever been to a funeral? My father passed away several years ago, and the day of his funeral is still sharp in my mind. I remember looking at him for the last time, and having many join me in saying good-bye to him. It was not an easy day.

On Easter morning, some women expected to say good-bye to Jesus. They wanted to honor his body by anointing it with spices, but had to wait until the Passover was finished. With heavy hearts, they approached the tomb wondering how they would roll the huge stone away. But that’s not what happened.

The stone was already moved, and an angel spoke to them. Jesus wasn’t in that tomb. Jesus wasn’t dead. “He has risen! He is not here,” the angel proclaimed. Hearts that ached became joyful. Death couldn’t hold on to Jesus; he was victorious! The women even saw their resurrected Lord on the way back to tell the disciples this most wonderful news.

Jesus’ victory is our victory. He paid for our sins when he suffered and died for us. He proved that he conquered sin, death, and the devil when he rose from the dead. His resurrection guarantees ours. Jesus has a room ready for us in heaven, where we will see him with our own eyes. With Job we can exclaim, “I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; I myself will see him with my own eyes – I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me.” (Job 19:25-27).

Because Jesus wasn’t in the tomb that first Easter morning, we know we never have to say good-bye to him. He is with us always. And to those believers who have passed away, we can say, “I know I’ll see you again.” With joyful hearts we look forward to an eternity with our Savior.