Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.

1 Corinthians 15:58

Last week, full with excitement and celebration and tradition and so much more, church sanctuaries throughout the world were packed with worshippers. You may have been among them.

And it was a good day. People were glad they were there. The devotion was genuine, and almost everyone in attendance showed up because they believe. Part of the joy of Easter is the impossible to make up authenticity.

So here it is, Sunday April 24, one week on, and I have to say: “FYI, in case you were wondering, the tomb is still empty!”

People who challenge Christianity often ask for the evidence of resurrection. You may be asking that yourself? There are a lot of arguments, proofs, apologetics, and evidences, but the most compelling – in my estimation – is the existence, the persistence, and the vibrant life of The Church.

This is my devotional, or motivational, point this morning. If you call yourself Christian, or a disciple, or a follower of the way of Jesus, then you are the most compelling evidence of the empty tomb!

Collectively, and especially in any given local community, it is the combined witness of tens, hundreds, and thousands of us, gathering for worship in sanctuaries just like we did on Easter Sunday, that either tells the story that He is Risen, or suggests – in our absence – something else entirely.

Public worship is a profound statement of faith and act of collective witness to The Resurrection!

As I have written on numerous occasions, Jesus has chosen to share his life and his invitation to life through us. It is one week after Easter Sunday and we have a message to share!

In love, and because love makes real life possible – DEREK