More than 2500 years ago, a Greek messenger, Pheidippides ran 25 miles from Marathon to Athens to tell his fellow citizens good news of the victory against their enemies the invading Persians.
Today, people run 25 miles, (quite a long distance) called Marathon to commemorate this legend for the messenger’s enthusiasm and happiness. But Pheidippides, the messenger had a greater purpose behind his effort; each of his steps was run for the sheer joy of delivering good news to his kinsmen!
Some five hundred years later, two women also ran to deliver good news. When Mary and Mary Magdalene arrived at the tomb where Jesus had been placed after His crucifixion, they found it empty. An angel told them that Jesus had “risen from the dead” and to “go quickly and tell his disciples.” The women, both were afraid yet filled with joy and ran to tell the disciples what they’d seen.
May we have the same joyful cheerfulness at the resurrection of Jesus, and invigorate us to share the good news with others. God, I rejoice because of Your victory over death. Thank You for having me the privilege to share this good news with those You’ve put in my life.
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