John 20
Within three days Jesus’ followers went from heartbroken
sadness to triumphant jubilation. The cross screamed, “The End,” making them
feel hopeless and helpless. But the resurrection trumpeted, “The Beginning,”
bringing confidence and courage. The cloud of doubt and despair that had
shrouded them melted away and was replaced with unshakeable faith.
Can you imagine how they felt when they realized Jesus had
risen from the dead? Suddenly hope came alive; now everything He had said was
validated as truth. They had not believed a lie. His victory over death was the
acid test that forever sealed their sure conviction that He was the Messiah.
We commemorate Jesus’ death on the cross with solemnity, but
the resurrection calls for thunderous applause, praise, and song. All the
blessings that come our way through the Savior’s cross are confirmed by the
resurrection. It proved that the Father was satisfied with the Son’s payment
for our sins. Now we can know that our transgressions are forgiven and we’re
eternally secure.
What’s more, Jesus promises that we, too, will be resurrected
and given new bodies. Physical death could not hold Him, nor will it overpower
us. Because He overcame the grave, His followers have the same kind of life He
has—eternal and indestructible.
As Christians, we have the right to celebrate Easter with
great rejoicing. Because of this event, our lives have been forever changed.
We’ve been transformed and given new life. With unwavering faith, we trust the
Bible because Christ’s power over the grave proves He can and will fulfill
every word.