“Jesus told her, ‘I am
the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me, even if he dies,
will live, ” John 11:25
During Easter we
celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This event is the key to
understanding the Christian faith. Without Easter morning, what Jesus taught
and modeled would only bring us condemnation. “And if Christ has not been
raised, your faith is worthless; you are still in your sins.” I Corinthians 15:17 Let’s learn more
about the special Easter gift God has for you.
Love :
At the time of Jesus’
coming, the Bible already had many detailed predictions about Jesus’ death on
the cross. His own words in Matthew 12:40, Mark 8:31and John 2:19-21 show He knowingly and
willingly went to the cross. “No one can take my life from me. I sacrifice it
voluntarily...” (John 10:18). His death
was not by accident. It was not for His own glory. He died to rescue us from
our sins. “God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us
while we were still sinners.” (Romans 5:8)
Life :
Easter is not just
about the death of Jesus. His resurrection was a victory! Because He conquered
death, we can be sure of the resurrection He promises for those who believe in
Him. “‘Death is swallowed up in victory’...But thank God! He gives us victory
over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:54,57). Jesus’ triumph over death keeps us from
spending eternity separated from God.
Hope :
Many religious leaders
tell of various ways to reach heaven. Yet, no others have shown proof that
theirs is the true way. “Christ died for our sins, just as the Scriptures said.
He was buried, and he was raised from the dead on the third day, just as the Scriptures
said...After that, he was seen by more than 500 of his followers at one time,
most of whom are still alive…” (1 Corinthians 15:3-6).
Jesus predicted His own death and resurrection, and then he accomplished it. He also promised to prepare a place in heaven for all who believe in Him. (John 14:1-6) He Himself is the bridge to eternal life. “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23)
Will you accept this Easter Gift for yourself?
Pray this week : Thank you God for the gift of love you gave me
through Jesus. I accept Jesus’ death as payment for my sins and I trust in the
life and hope that Jesus offers.
