There are many messages that the world sends out about the value of human life and the proposition of human death. For many years, concerns have been raised about the desensitizing effect of music and video games in which human life is so easily discarded. Even more recently, some concern has been raised with the onslaught of the very popular The Twilight Saga series and its messages about death, the soul and eternal life, and the mega popular The Hunger Games series and its thematic elements involving a “kill or be killed” story concept. Life and death issues are commonly presented to us in many forms but seldom exhibit a true depiction of the eternal consequences of death. A couple of things here in reality are certain though: we come into existence because God ordained for our life to begin and one day we all die. Death is a part of life, even for the Christian. But that doesn’t mean life has to end.
As Resurrection Sunday approaches, we are reminded of the crucifixion of Jesus and all that it means. There is no altering the message here of life, death, or eternity. There is no variation on a theme. Jesus lived a sinless life, died as a sacrifice for our sins - which separate us from God, and offers the gift of eternal life to those who believe in Him. Because of the blood of Jesus, salvation is possible and eternal life is available. No man made story can depict the truth and beauty of Gospel redemption and the exchanged life. This is real…for those who believe…it is life giving.
Riding home from running some errands today, I noticed people walking to their cars following a funeral at a nearby cemetery. On this gloriously sunny afternoon, I could clearly see the sadness in their expressions. I have personally experienced loss and know the ache left behind when a loved one dies. Even more painful is the loss when it was the result of a violent, senseless act. But I am reminded that as painful as death and loss is, its darkness and finality is blotted out forever - for the believer. As beautiful and precious as life here on earth is…and it is so very precious…new life, life abundantly, and life eternally is infinitely dearer. It is this truth that allows the believer to proclaim: “Oh death, where is your victory? Oh death, where is your sting?” 1 Corinthians 15:55. I will never know how someone who does not have their heart possessed by the truth of Sovereign Grace ever survives such a blow as death brings…thank You Lord, my God and Savior, I will never have to know.
Jesus said to her, “I
am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet
shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do
you believe this?” John 11:25,26
Oh Lord, You are my one and only Savior. Thank You for Your life giving sacrifice!
