Introduction:
Resurrection Morning refers to the day when Jesus Christ rose from the dead, an event that is central to Christian faith and theology. This miraculous event is celebrated by Christians worldwide on Easter Sunday. The Resurrection is documented in all four Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, each providing unique details that together offer a comprehensive account of this pivotal moment in Christian history.

Biblical Account:
The Resurrection of Jesus took place on the first day of the week, following His crucifixion and burial. According to the Gospel of Matthew, "After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb" (Matthew 28:1). They found the stone rolled away and an angel of the Lord who announced, "He is not here; He has risen, just as He said" (Matthew 28:6).

In the Gospel of Mark, the women are also mentioned as the first witnesses. They encounter a young man dressed in a white robe who tells them, "He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid Him" (Mark 16:6). The Gospel of Luke adds that the women were perplexed about the empty tomb until two men in dazzling apparel appeared and reminded them of Jesus' prophecy about His resurrection (Luke 24:4-7).

The Gospel of John provides a more personal account, focusing on Mary Magdalene's encounter with the risen Christ. Initially, she does not recognize Him, mistaking Him for the gardener, until He calls her by name, "Mary" (John 20:16). This intimate moment underscores the personal nature of the Resurrection and its impact on individual believers.

Theological Significance:
The Resurrection is foundational to Christian doctrine, affirming Jesus as the Son of God and validating His teachings and sacrificial death. It is seen as the ultimate victory over sin and death, offering believers the hope of eternal life. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 15:17, "And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins" . The Resurrection is thus a cornerstone of Christian hope and assurance.

Witnesses and Appearances:
The Gospels record several post-resurrection appearances of Jesus, which serve to confirm the reality of His rising. He appears to Mary Magdalene, the disciples on the road to Emmaus, and later to the Eleven in the upper room. In John 20:19, Jesus appears to His disciples, saying, "Peace be with you" , and shows them His hands and side, providing tangible proof of His bodily resurrection.

Impact on Early Church:
The Resurrection was the catalyst for the birth and growth of the early Church. The apostles, transformed by their encounters with the risen Christ, boldly proclaimed the message of the Resurrection, as seen in Peter's sermon in Acts 2:32, "God has raised this Jesus to life, to which we are all witnesses" . This message became the core of apostolic preaching and the foundation of Christian faith.

Conclusion:
Resurrection Morning is a defining moment in Christian history, marking the triumph of Jesus over death and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. It continues to be a source of hope, joy, and assurance for believers, affirming the promise of new life in Christ.