The word “arise” runs through Scripture like the repetitive chorus of a song.
When the people of Israel were waiting on the east side of the Jordan River, hesitating to enter the Promised Land, their leaders encouraged them, “Arise … for we have seen the land, and, behold, it is very good” (Judges 18:9).
When Jesus healed a paralytic, he told him, “Arise, take up your bed, and go to your house” (Matthew 9:6). Even when confronted with people who had died, he raised them with the command: “Arise!”
When the Prodigal Son from Jesus’ parable had lost all hope, he finally decided, “I will arise and go to my father” (Luke 15:8).
At this time of year, the theme of “arise” is evident in the creation, as well. Flowers start to poke through the cold ground. Spring takes hold. Everything God has made arises. It’s all a joyful reflection of the most awesome “arising” of all—Jesus’ victory over the grave when God raised Him from death.
Will you help me carry the important Easter message—God’s call to “arise!”—into prisons and jails at Easter and throughout the year? Spreading the Good News to prisoners, families, and all those affected by the cycle of crime, is at the core of Prison Fellowship’s mission and vision. For more information on how you can be a part, please visit the evangelism section of our website.