The Church News

Christian Care Empowers Masvingo Youth Through Detergent-Making Workshop

2026-04-28T06:55:00.001+02:00

A vibrant youth empowerment initiative unfolded in Masvingo, Zimbabwe, as Christian Care, in partnership with Magnificent International Arts (MIA), successfully hosted a detergent-making workshop combined with a youth development meeting.

The event brought together young people from various churches under the Zimbabwe Council of Churches, including the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe, Methodist Church, Lutheran Church, and the United Church of Christ in Zimbabwe (UCCZ). The strong participation reflected growing unity among churches in advancing youth empowerment programmes.

During the hands-on training session, participants gained practical knowledge in producing liquid detergent, petroleum jelly (Vaseline), and disinfectant bleach (Domestos). These skills are expected to help young people meet household needs while also creating opportunities for income generation.

The workshop focused on promoting self-reliance, entrepreneurship, and active youth involvement in community development, equipping participants with tools to improve their livelihoods and contribute positively to society.

Speaking at the event, Christian Care Masvingo Regional Chairperson, Mr. Tawanda Mudzimba, applauded the youths for their enthusiasm and encouraged them to utilize the knowledge gained:

“Our goal is to empower young people with practical skills that can transform their lives and enable them to contribute meaningfully to their communities.”

Magnificent International Arts (MIA) Regional Chairperson, Daisy Razidane, highlighted the importance of collaboration in reaching and empowering more youths:

“Partnerships like these allow us to expand opportunities for young people, nurturing their talents and promoting economic empowerment.”

🏛️ Formation of Masvingo Urban Youth Committee

A key outcome of the gathering was the establishment of the Masvingo Urban Christian Care Youth Committee, a leadership structure tasked with coordinating youth programmes at district level.

Newly elected Chairperson, Volyn Denga, expressed appreciation for the confidence placed in the team and pledged commitment to serving the youth:

“We are dedicated to promoting unity among churches and ensuring that empowerment programmes reach more young people.”

Vice Chairperson, Ilet Hove, also emphasized inclusivity and growth:

“Our mission is to ensure that every young person is involved and empowered through skills training, mentorship, and spiritual development.”

📋 Masvingo Urban Christian Care Youth Committee

Chairperson: Volyn Denga

Vice Chairperson: Ilet Hove

Secretary: Kays Nhema

Vice Secretary: Innocent Sithole

Committee Members:

Shylet Madoya, Sheilah Banda, Loveness Timire, Tatenda Chavingira, Tiffany Musonza, Ivainashe Nhongo

🌍 Looking Ahead

The successful workshop marks an important milestone in youth empowerment efforts in Masvingo, with expectations that more training programmes and development initiatives will be introduced to benefit young people across the region.

MINISTRY GOVERNANCE & DIVINE ORDER MANUAL

2026-04-28T06:51:00.007+02:00

CHAPTER 1: THE ROOT OF MINISTRY CONFUSION

🔑 Key Scripture:

📖 1 Corinthians 14:33

“For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace.”

📖 Proverbs 29:18

“Where there is no vision, the people perish.”

1. INTRODUCTION: WHY MINISTRIES FAIL INTERNALLY

Most ministry problems are not demonic attacks—they are structural confusion problems.

The biggest confusion is this:

Mixing relationship alignment with spiritual assignment.

When this happens:

vision becomes unstable

leadership becomes emotional

authority becomes unclear

ministry begins to shrink inwardly

2. THE CORE PROBLEM

There are three things people confuse:

(1) Marriage

A covenant of unity in life

(2) Calling

A divine assignment from God

(3) Ministry office

A governed spiritual function

👉 These three are NOT the same thing.

3. HOW CONFUSION ENTERS MINISTRY

Confusion enters when:

spouse assumes calling because of relationship

close family assumes authority because of proximity

emotions override spiritual structure

“helping” becomes “governing”

4. SPIRITUAL CONSEQUENCE OF CONFUSION

When order is broken:

vision becomes divided

leadership becomes contested

spiritual flow weakens

the altar loses clarity

📖 Amos 3:3

“Can two walk together, except they be agreed?”

Agreement is not emotional—it is alignment of assignment.

5. CORE TRUTH OF THIS CHAPTER

God does not call couples into one ministry office.

God calls individuals into specific assignments.

Marriage may support the calling—but does not replace it.

6. TEACHING SUMMARY

Confusion is not lack of prayer—it is lack of order

Order begins with understanding calling vs relationship

Every ministry must define structure clearly

🔥 DECLARATION FOR CLASS

“Lord, deliver Your church from confusion.

Restore divine order in calling, marriage, and assignment.

Let clarity return to leadership in Jesus’ name.”

GODISINIT: FROM WATER TO LIFE

2026-04-27T07:08:00.004+02:00

THE WORD IN 60 SECONDS

with Major Kudzai Marime

Dz Extension Corps

Harare West Division

We often think we’re in control, following our own plans and expecting things to go our way. Think of the Samaritan woman at the well. She came with one goal: draw water for her body. But she walked away meeting the Source of Life itself.

God interrupted her routine with a chance to revisit her past and reshape her future.

Jesus is still doing that today. He can shift our focus from temporary needs to eternal truth and help us rediscover who we really are. Trust Him with your life — He knows how to lead you better than you know how to lead yourself.

“Whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” - John 4:14

#RootedInPrayerAndCommitment - Salvationist online

Dorcas Moyo, Leonard Zhakata To Share Stage At Memorial Gala

2026-04-25T07:06:00.003+02:00

THEME: REJECTED, YET CHOSEN FOR A GREATER PURPOSE

2026-04-24T06:48:00.000+02:00

“The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.” (Psalm 118:22)

Rejection is the experience of being dismissed, overlooked, or not accepted by others. It can come from many circumstances, failed relationships, missed opportunities, betrayal by friends, or even being misunderstood for who you are. At its core, rejection touches something deeply human: the desire to belong and to be valued.

The pain of rejection can feel heavy. It can bring self-doubt, loneliness, and questions like “Am I not enough?” Left unchecked, it may lead to bitterness, withdrawal, or loss of confidence. Yet, rejection also holds the potential to shape us. It can redirect our path, refine our character, and push us toward growth we never imagined.

Rising after rejection requires strength and perspective. It means understanding that one “no” does not define your worth or your future. Sometimes, what feels like a closed door is actually divine protection or redirection. In my view, rejection is not always a denial, it can be a repositioning. It teaches resilience, humility, and trust in a bigger plan beyond human approval.

When we choose to rise, we reclaim our identity and purpose. We learn to stand firm, not in others’ opinions, but in who we are called to be.

Jesus Christ is the perfect example of this truth. Rejected by many, misunderstood, and even crucified, He still fulfilled His purpose and became the foundation of salvation. His story reminds us: rejection is not the end, it can be the beginning of something greater.

To God be the glory

Rev B Chinhara

New Venue Alert

2026-04-23T06:26:00.001+02:00

NEW VENUE ALERT ⚠️

STARTING 3 MAY 2026 WE SHALL BE DOING OUR SUNDAY SERVICES AT OUR NEW VENUE:MUFAKOSI HIGH 1 MAIN HALL

From town drive using Luton Road then you reach to Mufakosi you will see a board written Mufakosi High 1 or Ushers that will be standing at the road

Combis you get them at Copa cabana dzinoti MUFAKOSI which is 0.50 or $1 then movaudza kuti ndoda kuburukira paMUFAKOSI HIGH 1

Am expecting to see you there on this Date 3 May 2026

Bless you

THEME: LIFTED BY GRACE, AND NOT BY MERIT

2026-04-23T06:14:00.001+02:00

“But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace to me was not without effect.” (1 Corinthians 15:10)

There are moments when we must pause and honestly reflect: if it were not for the grace of God, where would we be? Some of us have come from backgrounds that offered little hope, places where failure seemed certain, where danger was near, and where survival itself was not guaranteed. Yet here we are. Not because we were the strongest, the smartest, or the most deserving, but because grace carried us.

Grace is undeserved mercy. It is God stepping into our brokenness and rewriting our story. Where there could have been death, He gave life. Where there could have been prison, He gave freedom. Where there could have been lack, He provided abundance. Truly, those who were once the tail have become the head, not by their own doing, but by divine favor.

Because of this, we must never boast. Our achievements are not trophies of our greatness, but testimonies of His goodness. Remembering where we came from keeps our hearts soft and humble. It reminds us to extend the same grace to others that God has shown us.

Above all, Jesus Christ stands as the perfect example of grace. Though we were undeserving, He gave Himself for us. In Him, grace is not just a concept, it is a living, saving power. Let us walk daily in gratitude, humility, and awe of such amazing grace.

To God be the glory

Rev B Chinhara

WHEN PEOPLE JUDGE, GOD UNDERSTANDS

2026-04-22T07:31:00.004+02:00

THE WORD IN 60 SECONDS

with Major Kudzai Marime

Dz Extension Corps

Harare West Division

We’ve all been misunderstood. People look at us, draw wrong conclusions, and speak things about us that aren’t true. Think of Hannah — her heart was poured out in prayer, but the priest thought she was drunk. Yet God saw her true motive and answered her. People may misjudge you, but God knows you better. He understands us completely.

#RootedInPrayerAndCommitment - Salvationist online

UTC Launches Gender Equality Workshop, Positions Faith as Driver of Social Transformation

2026-04-21T07:08:00.004+02:00

The United Theological College (UTC) has underscored the influential role of faith leaders in shaping societal values and advancing gender equality, as it recently launched a four-part workshop series focused on Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG 5).

In a statement, the institution highlighted that faith leaders play a central role in defining norms of acceptable behaviour, social roles, and broader perceptions of what constitutes a meaningful life. While religion can serve as a powerful catalyst for positive change, it can also hinder progress when institutions resist gender equality. This dual nature, the statement noted, makes religion both a critical enabler and, at times, a barrier to sustainable development.

On April 15, UTC commenced the first session of its workshop series under the Theology and Gender programme, led by Reverend Linah Ndhlovu. The initiative brings together the 2026 freshmen class and staff members, aiming to strengthen faith leadership’s role in promoting gender justice.

The opening session featured a presentation by Mr Patience Shava, who framed SDG 5 as “a divine mandate for modern times.” He stressed that religion holds decisive influence, particularly within Christian communities, where teachings emphasise unity and equality. Citing biblical principles, he challenged participants to reflect on how ideals of equality can be meaningfully applied within contemporary faith settings.

Discussions during the workshop revealed that while society has largely acknowledged the existence of gender disparities, there remains ongoing debate about the true meaning and application of gender equality. Participants contributed diverse perspectives, highlighting the need for a shared understanding to drive meaningful progress.

UTC Principal, Rev. Dr Kupakwashe Mtata, further reinforced the theological basis for gender equality, describing SDG 5 as aligned with the mission of Jesus Christ. He emphasised that the teachings of Jesus promote justice and equality, calling on believers to embody these values in their daily lives and leadership roles.

The workshop series, supported by Act Church of Sweden, is part of broader efforts to engage faith-based actors in preventing violence against women and girls (VAWG). Organisers noted that religious leaders and ministers-in-training possess significant influence in shaping community beliefs and practices. When guided effectively, they can promote values that prevent violence and support dignity; however, without critical reflection, they may also reinforce harmful norms.

Evidence from recent initiatives shows that faith-based approaches—such as sermons, prayers, and religious rituals—can be powerful tools for addressing social challenges. By engaging supportive religious leaders and challenging harmful practices, communities have begun to develop new frameworks that promote respect and equality.

Globally, faith-based actors are increasingly recognised as essential partners in achieving SDG 5 by 2030. Their ability to facilitate dialogue across community, local government, and national levels positions them as key drivers of change. International and regional bodies continue to collaborate with religious institutions to strengthen efforts aimed at ending violence against women and promoting gender equality.

Gender equality is the fifth of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals adopted by the United Nations in 2015 under the 2030 Agenda, which seeks to build a more just, peaceful, and sustainable world.

ZCC Hosts Finnish Delegation to Assess Community Resilience Projects in Gwanda

2026-04-21T07:00:00.000+02:00

The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) last week hosted a delegation from Finland on a two-day monitoring visit in Gwanda District, as part of ongoing efforts to evaluate the impact of a Felm-funded community development initiative.

The visit, which focused on Garanyemba Ward 13, forms part of a broader project that has been running since 2022 across Gwanda, Zvishavane, and Mwenezi districts. It offered the visiting team an opportunity to engage directly with local communities and stakeholders, gaining firsthand insight into the realities on the ground.

Leading the delegation, Bishop Dr. M.M. Dube together with the Felm Country Representative facilitated engagements that highlighted both the progress achieved and the challenges still being faced by communities. The team also paid a courtesy call to the Gwanda District Development Coordinator’s office as part of their official programme.

During the visit, the delegation interacted with beneficiaries of the project who have received support through various interventions. These include climate-smart agriculture initiatives, gender equality and equity programmes, Food for Assets schemes, disaster risk reduction strategies, and efforts to promote diversified livelihoods.

Community members shared their experiences, reflecting stories of resilience and adaptation in the face of recurring climatic shocks. The project’s interventions have played a significant role in strengthening household resilience, reducing vulnerability, and improving food security among participating families.

The monitoring visit further provided a platform for cultural exchange, allowing the Finnish delegation to experience Zimbabwe’s rich traditions while deepening their understanding of the social and economic dynamics shaping rural livelihoods.

IT'S ALL ABOUT JESUS CHRIST PRAYER MOVEMENT

2026-04-20T06:37:00.000+02:00

*[Date: April 19, 2026]*

*RE: PRAYER MOUNTAIN VISIT – LOGISTICS & CONTRIBUTION*

Dear DIVINE FAMILY

Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

This letter serves to formally inform you about our upcoming Prayer Mountain visit scheduled for *FRIDAY 29 MAY 2026*. As a church, we believe this will be a powerful time of seeking God, consecration, and breakthrough. _Joel 2:12_ — “Even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.”

*LOGISTICS & CONTRIBUTION*

To ensure smooth coordination, each member attending is kindly requested to contribute *$30.00*. This amount will cover the following:

Item Description Amount

**Transport** Bus fare to and from Prayer Mountain Included

**T-Shirt** Official Prayer Mountain T-Shirt for the day I

**Total** **Per person** **$30.00**

*IMPORTANT DETAILS*

1. *Date:* 29 MAY2026

2. *Departure Time & Meeting Point:* To be communicated closer to the date

3. *Dress Code:* Prayer Mountain T-Shirt provided

4. *Payment Deadline:*20 May to allow us to finalize transport and T-shirt orders*

5. *Payment Method:* Please submit your contribution to our senior Pastor Matinyadze +263772870398

We encourage every member to prioritize this gathering. Your $30 contribution will help us move as one body and avoid last-minute challenges.

For any questions or if you face challenges with the contribution, please do not hesitate to contact.

Apostle Dr lionde

+263779653687

+263719653687

Let us come expectant. _Matthew 18:20_ — “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”

Yours in Christ,

Apostle Lionde

*DIVINE LIFE INTERNATIONAL MINISTRIES*

Stage Set For Lutheran Church in Zimbabwe National Youth Revival

2026-04-20T06:30:00.006+02:00

MCZ Presiding Bishop Leads Official Church Opening In Marondera...

2026-04-18T07:34:00.000+02:00

What a glorious day! The Presiding Bishop Rev S. Sithole officiated at

the opening of Muda Church building in Chiota Circuit. Faith in action!

The Methodist Church In Zimbabwe

Faith in Action: Church-Led Efforts Restore Hope and Resilience in Chimanimani

2026-04-17T06:04:00.001+02:00

In a powerful demonstration of faith translating into action, the Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC), in partnership with Act for Peace (AfP), recently conducted a joint monitoring visit to Runyararo in Chimanimani district.

The visit focused on engaging with project participants and gathering feedback on the impact of various recovery initiatives. Community members shared moving testimonies of their journey toward healing and restoration following the devastating effects of Cyclone Idai in 2019.

What once seemed like overwhelming loss is now being replaced with renewed hope and visible progress. Improved access to clean water is easing daily challenges, particularly for women and children, while interventions at Runyararo Primary School — including WASH facilities and secure fencing — are creating a safer and more conducive learning environment for over 100 pupils and their teachers.

Livelihood restoration efforts, especially through livestock support, are helping families rebuild their sources of income while strengthening food security within the community.

Key infrastructure developments such as a newly established police base and a Waiting Mothers’ Shelter are bringing vital services closer to the people, enhancing safety, healthcare access, and protection for vulnerable groups.

Through the Strengthening Protection, Resilience, and Preparedness Programme, ZCC continues to embody Christian values of compassion, service, and restoration. Implemented in Chimanimani Ward 7 with funding support from Act for Peace and the Australian Government, the programme is fostering stronger social cohesion, renewed faith, and a spirit of unity among community members.

As residents, local leaders, government, and development partners work hand in hand, there is a growing sense that, through faith and collective effort, Chimanimani is steadily rising from the ashes—stronger, united, and full of hope.

#Chimanimani #Resilience #zccinzim #ActForPeace #AustralianGovernment #BuildingHope

Dorcas Moyo Shares Heartfelt Message on Motherhood and Love

2026-04-17T05:49:00.003+02:00

Staff Writer -

Popular gospel musician Dorcas Moyo has inspired many after sharing a touching message about her role as a mother, highlighting the deep love and commitment she has for her children.

Speaking on Friday, the gospel sensation expressed that while she may not always provide everything her children desire, her love for them remains unwavering.

"My children may not get everything they want, but they have a mom that loves them more than anything," she said.

Dorcas went on to reassure her children of her constant presence in their lives, promising to support and guide them through every step.

"As your mother, I promise you that I will always be in one of three places... in front of you to cheer you on, behind you to have your back, or next to you so you aren't walking alone," she said.

She also affectionately described herself as a "2 in one" for her children, adding a heartfelt message in Shona.

"Am your 2 in one Hwesa dzangu... I love you vana vangu," she said.

Clothed In New Life...

2026-04-16T06:52:00.000+02:00

THE WORD IN 60 SECONDS

with Major Kudzai Marime

Dz Extension Corps

Harare West Division

CLOTHED IN NEW LIFE

“He has clothed me with garments of salvation…” (Isaiah 61:10)

After Easter, we may still carry burdens that feel too heavy, too stained, or beyond repair. But Jesus didn’t just rise - He came to restore. God invites us to lay aside the old and be clothed in something new - His grace, His righteousness, His peace. We don’t have to hold on to what He has already taken away. Today, let go - and let Him clothe you again with new life.

Prayer:

Lord, help me to lay aside the old and walk in the new life You give. Amen.

#RootedInPrayerAndCommitment - Salvationist online

THEME: BETRAYAL TURNED INTO BLESSING

2026-04-16T06:38:00.001+02:00

By Reverend B Chinhara

“You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” (Genesis 50:20)

In Joseph’s powerful declaration, we see one of the clearest revelations of God’s sovereignty. His brothers acted out of jealousy and hatred, selling him into slavery and attempting to destroy his future. Yet what they meant for evil became the very pathway God used to elevate Joseph into a position of influence, where he could preserve countless lives during years of famine.

This truth still speaks today. People sometimes plan harm, through betrayal, lies, or rejection. These actions can leave deep wounds. Yet many who have been targeted by such evil often rise with powerful testimonies. Their pain becomes preparation, and their setback becomes a setup for something greater. God does not waste suffering; He transforms it.

The ultimate example is Jesus Christ. Betrayed, mocked, and crucified, His suffering appeared to be the victory of evil. Yet through His sacrifice came redemption and salvation for the world. What looked like defeat became eternal victory.

Joseph and Jesus both model the heart we are called to have: trust in God and forgiveness toward others. Joseph forgave his brothers. Jesus forgave even those who crucified Him. Forgiveness does not deny the evil, it declares that God is greater than it.

When betrayal comes, hold onto this truth: God is working behind the scenes. What was meant to break you can become the very thing that builds you. In God’s hands, even evil is turned into purpose, and betrayal becomes blessing.

To God be the glory

Rev B Chinhara

Dorcas Moyo Speaks on Emotional Unveiling of Husband’s Tombstone

2026-04-15T09:09:00.001+02:00

Gospel musician Dorcas Moyo has shared an emotional message following the unveiling of her late husband’s tombstone, describing the moment as one of closure, peace, and gratitude.

In a heartfelt statement, Dorcas reflected on the long journey it took to reach the milestone, revealing that it had not been easy since her husband’s passing.

“And I smiled and thank God that finally managed kushongedza imba yemumwe wangu. All along and for many years since he left us I was restless and in pain, but nguva hayo yaive isati yakwana till now,” she said.

She expressed appreciation to those who supported her through the process, particularly the team that worked on the tombstone.

“Thank you Team VanChab Monuments. Guess what my family, now I have peace,” she added.

Dorcas described the unveiling as a final act of love, honour, gratitude, and respect for her late husband, encouraging others to also give their loved ones a dignified send-off.

“For that last act of love, honour, gratitude and respect, VanChab will fulfill your desires,” she said.

She also shared contact details for the monument company for those seeking similar services, indicating their location in Willowvale, Harare.

A Call for Wisdom and Justice: Churches Reflect on Constitutional Amendment Bill

2026-04-14T06:42:00.005+02:00

On 13 April 2026, the Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) formally submitted its Statement of Inputs to the Parliament of Zimbabwe on the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment Bill No. 3 (2026), offering a faith-based perspective on the proposed changes.

Representing 32 member denominations and a constituency of at least three million citizens, the ZCC expressed its concerns about the potential impact of the Bill on the nation and its democratic foundations. The Council framed its role as that of a “watchman,” guided by Christian principles to speak with responsibility and care when matters affecting the nation arise.

Following prayerful reflection and consultations with various stakeholders, the ZCC outlined several key recommendations. Chief among them is the call to withdraw or substantially revise the Bill, noting that in its current form it raises constitutional, moral, and democratic questions.

The Council also proposed the establishment of an independent Constitution Amendment Commission. Such a body, it said, would ensure broader and more inclusive consultations, allowing citizens to meaningfully participate in shaping changes to the supreme law of the land.

Furthermore, the ZCC highlighted the importance of citizen involvement should the Bill proceed. It noted that provisions within the proposed amendments may significantly affect the structure of governance, and therefore emphasized the value of seeking direct public consent through a national referendum.

Throughout its submission, the ZCC maintained a tone of unity, responsibility, and hope, encouraging leaders and citizens alike to pursue decisions that uphold justice, transparency, and the common good.

#ConversationsOfHope

From Doubt to Declaration: The Way of Thomas and the True Passover

2026-04-14T06:25:00.000+02:00

Nhasi tichambotarisa the Way of Thomas Reflecting Passover:

#John 20:24-29

Apo tikuti kwauri muverengi don’t wait to see physical proof. The Lamb has been slain. His wounds are open to faith. Like Thomas, you can move from doubt to declaring, “My Lord and my God!” That’s the true Easter, the true Passover.

Blessed Sunday 🙌 😇 kwamuri mose

Evangelist David Urayayi

Introducing Noble Initiative For Pastors

2026-04-13T07:51:00.002+02:00

Greetings Servant of God,

We are introducing a structured initiative under Divine Life Foundation aimed at restoring dignity, security, and legacy in ministry.

PMELA – Pastors Mutual Empowerment & Legacy Association

This platform is designed to:

Secure education for pastors’ children

Facilitate land and housing ownership

Establish sustainable income projects

Protect widows and families of ministers

This is not a fundraising platform, but a discipline-based system for long-term stability in ministry.

We would be honored to share this vision with you and explore participation or partnership.

📞 071-965-3687

Building Faith. Securing Families. Preserving Honor.

Do Good Shine On ..

2026-04-13T07:44:00.000+02:00

THE WORD IN 60 SECONDS

with Major Kudzai Marime

Dz Extension Corps

Harare West Division

DO GOOD, SHINE ON

Keep doing good, family! Like Joseph, do it wholeheartedly with a clear mind. Don't let others' ignorance dim your light. They lost Joseph, but he kept shining. Win hearts by doing good, even when misunderstood.

#RootedInPrayerAndCommitment - Salvationist online

Picture: MCZ Hwange District Synod

2026-04-11T06:40:00.004+02:00

The Presiding Bishop of The Methodist Church in Zimbabwe

Revd S. Sithole addressing Bulawayo District Synod.

Noble Initiative To Empower Pastors

2026-04-10T04:26:00.002+02:00

Title: “He Is Not Here — He Has Risen!”

2026-04-10T04:21:00.002+02:00

Text: Gospel of Matthew 28:5–6

“Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; He has risen, just as He said…”

Beloved, this powerful moment in Scripture captures the turning point of history. The women came to the tomb expecting death, mourning, and silence—but instead, they encountered life, victory, and a divine announcement that still echoes today: “He is not here; He has risen!”

First, the angel says, “Do not be afraid.”

Fear is often our first response when life does not go as expected. The women had seen Jesus Christ crucified. Their hope seemed buried. Yet God speaks into their fear before revealing the miracle. This reminds us that fear can cloud our ability to see what God is doing. Even in moments of confusion, God is still in control.

Second, the angel acknowledges their pain: “I know that you are looking for Jesus.”

God sees our seeking. He understands our sorrow, our questions, and our longing. The women came looking for a dead Savior—but God had something greater in store. Sometimes we look for answers in places of despair, not realizing that God has already moved beyond that situation.

Then comes the life-changing declaration: “He is not here; He has risen.”

This is the foundation of our faith. The resurrection is not just an event—it is a victory. Death could not hold Him. The grave could not contain Him. Sin was defeated. This means that whatever seems “dead” in your life—hope, dreams, opportunities—God has the power to bring it back to life.

Finally, the angel says, “Just as He said.”

God keeps His promises. Jesus Christ had already told His disciples that He would rise again. When it happened, it confirmed that His word is trustworthy. If God said it, He will do it. Even when it seems delayed, His promises never fail.

Message for Today

We all face “tomb moments”—places where things seem finished, sealed, and hopeless. But the resurrection reminds us that God specializes in turning endings into new beginnings.

When you feel defeated, remember: He is risen.

When you feel lost, remember: He is not in the grave—He is alive and present.

When you doubt, remember: Just as He said, it shall come to pass.

Conclusion

The empty tomb is not just a story—it is an invitation. An invitation to move from fear to faith, from sorrow to joy, and from death to life.

So today, hold onto this truth:

The same power that raised Christ from the dead is still at work.

He is not here.

He has risen.

And because He lives, there is hope for you.

Amen.