Having stood over the open graves of friends, family, and strangers, I know the feel of death's finality and our human frailty. Christ's death, however, powerfully reminds us that death's hold on us depends on our perspective and faith rooted in the saving work of Jesus. I believe God raised Jesus from the dead and that Jesus is the firstfruits of those of us who believe in him (
1 Corinthians 15:20-23). I believe he was raised from the dead, not just in spirit form, but in bodily presence to defeat death and bring us "
life and immortality to light" beyond death (
2 Timothy 1:10). Because Jesus lives, so will we! No grave could hold him, and because of him, no grave can hold us. And in that new life that is ahead, Jesus will bring us to God, and to each other who believe in him, in glory (
1 Thessalonians 4:16-18).
Almighty God, thank you for the gifts of your grace, Spirit, forgiveness, and eternal life. Most of all, thanks for the gift of your Son, who brought "life and immortality to light" in me through your salvation. While I have no great desire to die, or go through the process of dying, I know I can look through death to being with you and sharing your victory with me through Jesus. Please give me the courage to live confidently for you each day until the day you take me home to you in glory. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
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