Let every man and woman count himself immortal. Let him catch the revelation of Jesus in his resurrection. Let him say not merely, “Christ is risen,” but “I shall rise.” ~Phillips Brooks
Easter is my very favorite Holiday. Of all the joys in life, what greater event could we possibly celebrate? Jesus has risen! The perfect God became a sinless man, to lay down His life to pay the penalty for my sin. Brutally tortured and crucified. Declaring, “It is FINISHED.” Temple veil torn. Access now granted for you and for me. No longer restricted access after much sacrifice. ”He appeared once, for all, to do away with sin by the sacrifice of Himself.” (Heb. 9:26) ”He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.” (1 Jn 2:2)
Dead. For sure. For three days. John 10:11, “The Good Shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.” The “Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.” (John 1:29). Christ, “our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed.” (1 Cor. 5:7) No fault found in Him. Spotless. Free of all blemish. A perfect sacrifice. No life taken from Him, the Author of life. He gave His life. For you. For me.
…” And He will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.” Heb 9:28 The stone was rolled away. ”Destroy this temple and I will raise it again in three days.” (Jn 2:19) It was IMPOSSIBLE for death to keep its hold on Him. (Acts 2:24)
How does this affect my life centuries later? If I “confess with my mouth, “Jesus is Lord” and believe in my heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9) He has given me “new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” (1 Pet. 3:18)
How will this resurrection impact my future? 2 Cor 4:14 ”The One who raised Jesus from the dead will also raise us with Jesus and present us with you in His presence.” For it is the will of the Father, “that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in Him shall have eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day.” (Jn. 6:40)
So it is that the same hope I found in Christ years ago, was found yesterday by many. An Easter Sonrise celebration where the life, death and resurrection of Christ was proclaimed. Joggers paused to listen. Cyclers stopped their spinning wheels. Walkers strolled in. A community gathered. His church outside the walls. Christ proclaimed. A living hope. Received fresh into hearts prepared by the Father. Filled with promise. Oh glorious day!
Thank You, Father for resurrection and life! Thank You for Your goodness and grace! Thank You for eternal life and hope. Grow strong in the hearts of new followers. Help us to follow Your example always and live fully to bring You glory.
