Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:12-19
“If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men the most pitiable.”—1 Corinthians 15:19
Arguably, I’d say hopelessness. The absence of hope is a frightening matter that declares a sense of finality over a situation. Perhaps that’s what the disciples experienced as Jesus’ lifeless body was removed from the cross—hopelessness and despair. For three years, they had forsaken everything to invest themselves in Jesus. Now the one thought to be the hope of Israel’s redemption was dead.
That was the backdrop but it wasn’t the final outcome. As those disciples would experience soon, indeed, Jesus was resurrected, just as He promised. Jesus’ death on the cross saved us from the penalty and bondage of sin and reconciled us to God. His resurrection from the dead gave us hope. That hope assures us of victory over the obstacles in this life.
Yet, to restrict the basis of our hope to victory over life’s earthly challenges alone is to miss the full magnitude of Jesus’ resurrection. 1 Corinthians 15:20 reminds us Jesus’ resurrection made Him “the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.” Jesus is the first of a countless multitude to rise from death to enter into immortal life with God. The Resurrection disintegrated the impact of sin, death and hell, once and for all.
Today, you may have something that seems dead and hopeless in your life—a dream, promise or unanswered prayer. Everything seems lost and you are ready to concede defeat. Before conceding, recognize the power that raised Jesus from the dead is available to resurrect the dead, hopeless things in your life. Believe Him to do that today! Even more, the best of all promises is yet to come; immortal life with Jesus Christ!
That is the promise of Resurrection Day—there is still hope. For today and eternity!
Lesson to Remember: The Resurrection is God’s promise of victory in life and eternity!
“He is not here; for He is risen, as He said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.”—Matthew 28:6
