Life Abundant!

Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life:

he that believes on me, though he die, yet shall he live.

John 11:25

            God alone has power over death.  With the resurrection of Jesus came the hope and promise for all believers. One day, we too will have victory over death and will live with Him in eternity. What a wonderful joy and reassurance to know that Jesus is the resurrection! He has overcome death. The grave is not our finishing point, but rather the beginning of a new and glorious life with Him.

            Jesus also said He is the life.  He created life, He is the sustainer of life, and He offers eternal life. In Him, we have abundant life here on earth and a joyful anticipation of life with Him forever. Life is meaningless, purposeless, and hopeless without Him. He gives us meaning in life, and quality of life. When our lives seem overwhelming or frustrating, we can look to the One who is Life for renewal, guidance, and strength. Praise you, Father, for your victory and power over death. You are our Resurrection and our Life. We find our life in you.

Questions to Ponder:

Have I placed my faith in Jesus as the one who is the resurrection and the life?

Do I look to Him to give me strength and direction in my life?

Have I thanked Him for my life and for those around me?

Photo by Sapan Patel on Unsplash

The Power of Reconciliation

IMG_0680

We all have different ways of viewing life, from values to politics to religion to simply how to raise our kids. Sadly, these differences often lead to disagreements, misunderstandings and broken relationships. This week, I want to focus on the joy of restoration and the power of reconciliation both with people and with God.

If you have ever experienced a shattered friendship, family relationship or even a business partnership, then you know the deep pain it can instill. It often makes us question our own self-worth or value. It can also stir up anger, blame and unforgiveness toward those who have hurt us. Yet, when understanding and forgiveness override our disputes and divisions, we invite love and restoration to heal our wounds.

Although forgiveness and reconciliation are not the same thing, they are related. Forgiveness is an inward action as we choose to release the right to hold something over another person. Reconciliation, on the other hand, means to settle a quarrel or bring things back into harmony. Forgiveness is an essential element in working toward reconciliation.

Those who live with a heart of forgiveness toward others

have the opportunity to experience the deep joy

and inner peace that reconciliation offers.

 

Isn’t that the essence of Easter? The broken relationship between Holy God and sinful man was restored through Jesus death on the cross and resurrection. His sacrifice provided forgiveness and reconciliation for all who place their trust in Him. This is the joy of Easter! This is what we celebrate!

If God went to such great lengths to reconcile us to Himself, shouldn’t we also make an effort to reconcile our differences with others?