The Master Carpenter

"Then Simon Peter, who was behind him, arrived and went into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying there, as well as the burial cloth that had been around Jesus' head. The cloth was folded up by itself, separate from the linen." John 20:6-7, NIV

I hope you enjoyed your Easter celebration. Did you worship the risen Lord?

I can almost sense the smile of Peter’s face that day so long ago. He and John had raced to the tomb after Mary found it empty. What could have become of their Savior? Who would have taken His body? What cause would there be to disturb Him from the grave?

When Peter reached the tomb and saw the strips of burial cloth, folded neatly, each one separate from the other, he knew the answer to their dilemma. Jesus had answered their concern. He was risen indeed! His work was finished.

Can I share with you something I learned recently? In Jesus’ time there was a tradition carpenters had to signify the completion of a project. Once the last nail was driven, the carpenter would splash water on his face; perhaps even on his chest and arms. With a towel kept nearby, he would dry himself off, then fold the towel gently in half, then in half again, and lay it neatly on the finished work and walk away. This folded towel was a symbol that the work was complete.

On the cross, Jesus had yelled out Tetelestai: IT IS FINISHED! As He exited the tomb as the Risen Lord, He folded His outer garments, signifying once again that it was truly finished. Death has been swallowed up in Victory! Peter and the other disciples, knowing this custom well, perhaps haven even watched Jesus do it in his carpentry work before, must have surely smiled at the sight of the folded garments. Jesus had said in death and in newness of life that IT IS FINISHED!

Are you living in the victory found in the finished work of Christ? Are you experiencing the joy found only in Him? Are you enjoying the peace that comes from being secure in Christ alone?

Dear Christian friend, Easter does not occur just once a year! It is every moment of every day of your life. The truth of Easter is your strength for daily living! The Master Carpenter has finished His work! Live in that Victory today!