Easter - 2018

Monday, October 27, 2008

Jesus is Alive

“But because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood. Therefore, He is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.” – Hebrews 7:24-25 NIV

In the church I was raised our Minister, Lloyd Menning, would always start his Easter sermon with this phrase, "Easter! The greatest day that ever dawned, from the greatest story ever told, in the greatest life ever lived! Jesus is Alive! He is risen indeed!" I woke up this morning hearing his voice and that phrase. I like mornings like this.

People of all ages gathered in a small Baptist church in rural Bangladesh to view a screening of the “Jesus” film. The small building was so crowded that little children had to sit on the floor while rows of adults stood in the back. During the crucifixion scene, weeping and gasps of disbelief could be heard as the dark-skinned audience looked on in horror. As the Bengalis watch, they vicariously sensed the drama of the moment. It was as if they actually could feel the agony of Jesus’ pain and the disappointment of the disciples. In that emotional moment, one young boy near the makeshift screen jumped to his feet and cried our, “Don’t be afraid! He gets up again! I’ve seen the movie before.” [from Give Thanks With a Grateful Heart, Integrity Publishing, 2002]


Whether we say, “He gets up again,” “Christ is risen,” or “He’s alive!” the reality of the resurrection should not be reserved for one Sunday a year. Our shouts should be heard everyday in the lives we live. The message of Easter is the foundation of our faith every single day of our lives. Jesus defeated death and it is the greatest truth ever told. Therefore, Jesus is not bound by space, time, or distance. He’s alive and working amongst his people even now. Let us fix our eyes on Him and press forward without distraction toward the prize of seeing him face to face and celebrating our personal Easter.

You know I love ya - Don

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