Earthquakes!

Many ancient people interpreted earthquakes as signs, even messages from the gods. Babylonians thought that they had prophetic implications. Those living in Rome assumed that earthquakes meant that the gods had been angered, and needed to be placated.

When they experienced a quake, the Roman soldiers surrounding the cross immediately “became very frightened.” Shaken, they realized that the Man on the cross was unique, that He was “the Son of God!”

On the first day of the week, another earthquake hit the city. While the first quake centered on Jesus’ death, this second quake was about His resurrection. It was caused by the sudden intervention of “an angel of the Lord,” who “descended from heaven and came and rolled away the stone.” Although the earthquake was “severe,” the guards around Jesus’ tomb seem more disturbed by the angel.

The women who had come to look at the grave also were afraid. But their reaction changed when they heard the angel’s message, and learned that Jesus had risen from the dead!

These were just the beginning of the spiritual “earthquakes” in the years to come. As the Holy Spirit was poured out, the followers of Jesus revolutionized the world. Revelation describes the ways earthquakes also are central to the fulfillment of prophecy, and a key part of God’s judgment. How they shake people up, and get their attention.

Many Believers can testify that Jesus has changed their lives, much like an earthquake. Through ways both subtle and dramatic, He has shaken their world and forced them to look at life in new ways. For those who believe, He gives eternal life, and imparts resurrection power. The same power that raised Him from the dead.

He still is changing lives. How has He changed your life?