Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and take word to my brethren…” Matthew 28:10

I love Jesus with all my heart and soul and want others to know of His love, but I do not have the gift of evangelism. However, after reading these first words recorded after Jesus rose from death, I realize I have the same purpose which He gave to these women. Jesus was commissioning these women to go back to the people they knew and share words of hope. The tomb is empty! Jesus is alive! His promises are true! Furthermore, Jesus wants to meet with them.

We are more familiar with the “great commission” found later in the chapter where Jesus tells his followers, “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them…and teaching them to obey all I have commanded you.” I don’t think I will ever baptize anyone, but when I read Jesus words to the two Marys, I felt my heart leap. I can identify with the task He gave them. I go to my sisters and my brothers and share His words with them. It is one of my greatest joys to discuss a passage of the Bible and find God’s promises and hope. I know that because the tomb is empty, we have hope for the darkest situations. I can remind my brothers and sisters that the Lord wants to meet with each one of them. It comforts me to know that witnessing is not limited to church planting and explaining theology but simply testifying of God’s goodness and grace in my life.