Our Lord has written the promise of resurrection, not in books alone, but in every leaf in springtime. —Martin Luther
Sunday morning the disciples were still locked away in hiding. The body of Jesus was still sealed securely in the tomb… or so they thought.
God had performed a miracle. Molecule by molecule, He defied the natural laws. He restructured cell walls, purged toxins, replaced decayed biochemicals, and expelled microscopic scavengers… until the body was ready once again.
And with a breath, the soul and Spirit of Christ came to earth again. Supernatural? By all means, it was. God’s business is supernatural—reversing decay and giving new life. God’s business is resurrection, and those who are in Christ are part of it, right here, right now:
We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. If we have been united with him like this in his death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection. (Romans 6:4-5)
This is all part of the incredible mystery of life “in Christ.” It’s a mystery, but when we see it in action, it’s undeniable. A couple of years ago, right after Easter, this email said it all:
Dear Pete,
It was 7 years ago Easter weekend that I was at the end of my downhill spiral. I had just spent the weekend choosing drugs over life and the custody of my first son, and I felt as though I had nothing left to live for. I cannot describe the overwhelming peace and joy that I experience today! I was allowed to serve at two services and attended the third. It’s like there is no other place I belong on Easter morning…
This precious woman met the risen Christ. Today she walks with Him in forgiveness and grace and shameless worship. If you really want to see the resurrected Jesus, just look at people like her because she, somehow, was resurrected with Him, too.
Jesus, You are God, able to do far more than I could ever comprehend. By faith, Lord, I accept that my old self was crucified and that I have been raised with You for new life in You. Make this mystery a reality in my life today! Amen.