I love movie previews. In fact, when I go to the theater to watch a movie, I always want to be there early enough that I don’t miss any of the previews. Others may wander in and find their seat rather lackadaisically. But I am already rapt with attention at the coming attractions.
Jesus gave his disciples multiple previews of his most important “coming attraction” — the resurrection. Through miracles, he clearly showed them that he possesses power over death. He openly demonstrated his authority to grant life.
Don’t be the person who misses the previews. Especially this time of year!
Because the main event is almost here. It’s called Easter. And in this event Jesus shows us the greatest evidence of all that death has no power to overcome him. Easter assures us beyond any shadow of a doubt: in the bitter rivalry of Jesus vs. death, Jesus is the clear and final winner!
But know this: Easter does not stand alone as evidence of this. One of the best previews of Jesus’ ultimate power over life and death is the story of his healing of the widow of Nain’s son:
“Soon afterward, Jesus went to a town called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd went along with him. As he approached the town gate, a dead person was being carried out—the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. And a large crowd from the town was with her. When the Lord saw her, his heart went out to her and he said, ‘Don’t cry.’
Then he went up and touched the bier they were carrying him on, and the bearers stood still. He said, ‘Young man, I say to you, get up!’ The dead man sat up and began to talk, and Jesus gave him back to his mother” (Luke 7:11-15, NIV).
Our Bible reading for Saturday, March 28, is Numbers 23:27 – 26:11, Luke 7:11-35 and Psalm 38:1-12.
Lord Jesus, thank you for being the Lord of life. Heal me. And grant me life. I am confident you have both the power and the authority to do this — both now, and in eternity. Amen.
Header image based on "Warner Grand Theater" by Graham, CC By 2.0
pastorjeffgunn 
Our Bible reading for Saturday, March 28, is Numbers 23:27 – 26:11, Luke 7:11-35 and Psalm 38:1-12.
So he replied to the messengers, “Go back and report to John what you have seen and heard: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is proclaimed to the poor. Blessed is anyone who does not stumble on account of me.” (Luke 7:22-23 NIV)
Heavenly Father, you do all things for us. Jesus heals the blind. I am blind and you give me your word to read. It is by faith I can see. Jesus heals the broken. I am broken. I hurt and cannot do all things I want to do. When you come to me I am fixed and able to serve. Jesus heals the deaf. I am deaf, I am a sinner. The noise of this world controls me often Lord. Please fill my ears with songs of joy. Jesus raises the dead. I am dead, I am just a man. My faith in Christ and in Christ alone I have with your grace defeated death. Lord help me and those I love not stumble. When we do thank so much for your forgiveness and hope.
~Paul Montenieri
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