As we face the problems and uncertainty surrounding COVID-19, a modern-day plague, things may look bleak. But as with the plagues of the Bible, as well as most if not all the trials we face, this too shall pass. Indeed, God tells us, “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you. For I am the Lord your God, The Holy One of Israel, your Savior.” (Isaiah 43:1-3 NKJV)
Imagine how black the future must have looked to the disciples of Christ (Yeshua), as they watched helplessly while their friend, teacher and leader—the promised Messiah and the hope of Israel—was arrested, mocked and scourged, and finally sentenced to death. Imagine their horror at seing their Lord brutally nailed to a cross and left there to die. Imagine the uncertainty they felt, hiding and fearing for their own lives, all their hopes and dreams seemingly shattered, with nothing left but hopelessness and despair; a dark question mark hanging over their lives and future.
Today, as we continue to follow the latest news, many of us may be feeling similarly fearful and hopeless. But we can take heart—and find renewed hope—just as the disciples did; because the crucifixion and death of Christ was not the end of the story.
On the third day of the greatest story ever told, two angels stood near Christ’s open tomb, asking “Why do you seek the living among the dead? Jesus is not here, but He is risen!” (Luke 24:5-6) And this is what we celebrate every Easter or Resurrection Sunday!
The Apostle Paul wrote, “And if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:14 ESV) Dear friends, our God is not dead, and therein lies our hope, even in seemingly hopeless times, for we worship a living, loving, merciful and hospitable God who cares about us. Jesus said, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” (John 10:10 NIV) “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.” (John 11:25 NIV)
We, as individual believers, as the universal Body of Christ/Messiah, as a nation, and as citizens of the world, will also have our resurrection. The God of the Universe, who sent His Son in order to welcome us back into a right relationship with Him, is still in the “abundant life” business. He’s still here, and He’s still performing miracles. (John 3:16) So have faith and hang on to God’s promises.
Because He Lives
Because He lives I can face tomorrow
Because He lives all fear is gone
Because I know He holds the future
And life is worth the living just because He lives