How can we prepare our hearts like the women prepared spices for Jesus? Arriving at the Tomb: Luke 24:1 Revisited “On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women came to the tomb, bringing the spices they had prepared.” What the Women Did—Key Observations • Rose “very early”: eagerness rather than procrastination • Came “together”: shared devotion strengthens resolve (Hebrews 10:24–25) • “Bringing the spices”: costly, thoughtful preparation (2 Samuel 24:24) • Purpose: honor the Lord even when hope seemed buried Turning Spices into Heart-Preparation • Intentional Time—meet Him at the first light of each day (Mark 1:35) • Conscious Cost—lay down comfort, agenda, and sin (Romans 12:1) • Loving Detail—shape habits that please Him, not bare minimum (Colossians 3:23) • Hope Against Odds—trust His promises when circumstances look sealed by a stone (Romans 4:18) Practical Steps for Today 1. Set the Clock • Plan undistracted dawn moments with Scripture and worship. • Psalm 5:3: “In the morning, LORD, You hear my voice.” 2. Gather the Ingredients • Choose a reading plan, journal, and songs that lift your spirit. • Psalm 119:103: His words taste “sweeter than honey.” 3. Mix in Confession and Surrender • Invite God to search the hidden places (Psalm 139:23–24). • Release grudges and doubts; forgiveness is a fragrant oil (Ephesians 4:32). 4. Carry the Aroma Outward • Live the day mindful that you are “the fragrance of Christ” (2 Corinthians 2:15). • Acts of kindness become incense rising to Him (Philippians 4:18). Guarding the Prepared Heart • Proverbs 4:23—“Guard your heart with all diligence.” – Filter media intake. – Choose companions who spur holiness. • 1 Peter 3:15—Sanctify Christ as Lord in your heart; let hope be noticeable. Why It Matters Prepared spices never touched Jesus’ body, yet the women still met the risen Lord. Likewise, a heart made ready often encounters more than it ever imagined: resurrection power, renewed joy, and a mission to proclaim, “He is risen!” |
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