Tag: Easter

David Called It

David called it. More than a thousand years before it even happened, David tells the story of Jesus’ arrest, death and resurrection.

“Even my close friend, someone I trusted, one who shared my bread, has turned against me. But may you have mercy on me, Lord; raise me up, that I may repay them. I know that you are pleased with me, for my enemy does not triumph over me. Because of my integrity you uphold me and set me in your presence forever” (Psalm 41:9-12, NIV).

If ever there was a convincing argument for the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, this is it. If ever there was a solid case for God having a plan to redeem mankind, well, this is definitely it.

And what more beautiful time of year to celebrate both of these than Easter?

David’s words in Psalm 41 let you know two things for sure. First, you have a God who loves you enough to communicate his love to you. Over and over again for thousands of years. And second, you have a God who values you so much that he would send his one and only Son to be your substitute.

And here’s a third. As a bonus. That one and only Son won an eternal victory for you. And his name is Jesus.

Happy Easter!

Our Bible reading for Easter Sunday, April 5, is Deuteronomy 2:24 – 4:14, Luke 10:25 – 11:4 and Psalm 41:7-14.

Lord, thank you for your death and resurrection. Because of these, I am assured of forgiveness and salvation. I have a new life to look forward to. You have given me a future!

Header image based on "Bluebell Heaven" by Nana B Agyei, CC By 2.0

Previews of Ultimate Power

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