Let us notice, finally, the gracious message which the Lord sent to the (Hscij)les after His resurrection. He appeared in person to the women who had come to do honor to His body. Last at the cross and first at the tomb, they were the first privileged to see Him after He rose. And to them He gives commission to cany tidings to His disciples. His first thought is for His little scattered flock. " Go, tell my brethren.''
There is something deeply touching in those simple words, "my brethren." They deserve a thousand thoughts. Weak, frail, erring as the disciples were, Jesus still calls them His " brethren." He comforts them, as Joseph did his brethren who had sold him, saying, " I am your brother Joseph." Much as they had come short of their profession, — sadly as they had yielded to the fear of man, — they are still His '^ brethren." Glorious as He was in Himself, — a conqueror over death, and hell, and the grave, the Son of God is still " meek and lowly of heart." He calls His disciples " brethren."
Let us turn from the passage with comfortable thoughts, if we know anything of true religion. Let us see in these words of Christ, an encouragement to trust and not be afraid. Our Saviour is one who never forgets His people. He pities their infirmities. He does not despise them. He knows their weakness, and yet does not cast them away. Our great High Priest is also our elder brother.