Mark 16:6

Mark 16:6 is the announcement of the resurrection -- the crucified Jesus is alive, He is not in the tomb. The women had come to the tomb early on the first day of the week and were startled to find it open and a messenger waiting.

The first words are comfort: "Be not affrighted." The scene was overwhelming, and the women were filled with fear. The messenger then identifies exactly who they seek: "Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified." There is no mistaking the person -- the very one who had died on the cross. Then comes the heart of all good news: "he is risen; he is not here." The one who was certainly dead is now alive. To remove any doubt, the messenger adds, "behold the place where they laid him" -- the women can see for themselves the spot now empty. The tomb that should have held a body holds only the evidence of departure. This is the turning point of the entire story. The crucifixion was not the end; death did not keep its hold on Jesus. The empty tomb transforms grief into wonder and despair into hope. The crucified Lord lives, and that announcement still stands at the center of the Christian faith.