Deep Revelation

Am I open to the intervention of the Spirit?

Matthew 28: 2 - 6

And suddenly there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord, descending from heaven, came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning and his clothing white as snow. For fear of him the guards shook and became like dead men. But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus who was crucified. He is not here, for he has been raised, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay.

I like the contrast in this passage; the guards, who are armed and trained for combat, are afraid and faint. However, the women, who have seen so much violence in the past few days, take this moment in stride. They are not mighty and fortified; they have been doing the simple work of community - feeding, nurturing, mourning, and caregiving. It is in these moments, the pivotal mystery of resurrection is revealed.

What are times that Spirit has revealed deep truths to you in simple moments when you did not expect it?

I am often overly-intellectual and skeptical, “is this really happening? Or am I being tricked somehow?” I don’t want to get “carried away” or anything. But the Marys are looking for the intervention of the Spirit, in the midst of a dark and violent story.

We are in dark and violent times. Am I open to the intervention of the Spirit? Or am I missing it in my skepticism?

—Theo Isoz