JEFF TURNER

Mark, chapter 16, verses 5-6, recounts a pivotal moment in Christian history. It tells of the women who went to the tomb of Jesus, carrying spices to anoint his body. Instead of finding him there, they were greeted by an angel who said, “He is not here, for he has risen, just like he said. Come, see the place where the Lord was lying.”

This declaration is central to the Christian faith. It signifies the fulfillment of Jesus’ promise to rise from the dead, proving his power over sin and death. The empty tomb has become a symbol of hope and victory for all who believe in Jesus as their saviour.

This powerful message is echoed in the song “Big Ole Stone” by Triumphant Quartet. Sean Barber, a member of the group, describes the essence of the song: “You know, if you believe that that grave is no longer full, that it’s empty, and that stone’s been rolled away, man, just lift your hands in victory. You’ve got hope. There’s better days coming. And this is your victory. And that’s the song in a nutshell.”

The song, featured on the group’s God is Listening CD, has resonated deeply with listeners. Its message of triumph and hope is reflected in its current standing as the number 9 song on the Texas Gospel Canada Top 30 list for this month.

For believers, the empty tomb is more than a historical moment—it is a reminder that victory is possible through faith. As Sean Barber says, “You’ve got hope. There’s better days coming.” This truth continues to inspire and uplift, bringing the message of Easter into the hearts of many.

Mark 16 NASB: “When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might come and anoint Him. And very early on the first day of the week, they came to the tomb when the sun had risen. They were saying to one another, “Who will roll away the stone from the entrance of the tomb for us?” And looking up, they noticed that the stone had been rolled away; for it was extremely large. And entering the tomb, they saw a young man sitting at the right, wearing a white robe; and they were amazed. But he said to them, “Do not be amazed; you are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who has been crucified. He has risen; He is not here; see, here is the place where they laid Him. But go, tell His disciples and Peter, ‘He is going ahead of you to Galilee; there you will see Him, just as He told you.’” And they went out and fled from the tomb, for trembling and astonishment had gripped them; and they said nothing to anyone, for they were afraid.

Now after He had risen early on the first day of the week, He first appeared to Mary Magdalene, from whom He had cast out seven demons. She went and reported to those who had been with Him, while they were mourning and weeping. And when they heard that He was alive and had been seen by her, they refused to believe it.

Now after that, He appeared in a different form to two of them while they were walking along on their way to the country. And they went away and reported it to the rest, but they did not believe them, either.” – NASB