Because He Lives

"Therefore, we were 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." Romans 6:4

So what's the big deal? Jesus was raised from the dead. The tomb was empty. How many times have you heard that in an Easter sermon? You probably heard it this morning. And if you grew up baptist or pentecostal you've probably heard it at every altar call at every Sunday morning service you've ever attended. So what's the big deal?

The big deal is that when you have faith in Jesus Christ you are somehow, mysteriously and permanently intertwined in body, mind, soul, and spirit with Jesus's body, mind, soul, and spirit. And therefore, in that moment of belief, you went into the Good Friday tomb with Jesus and so did all your sin. In that split second, God set you free from death. He unchained the shackles of all your rebelliousness and forgave you. So that's the big deal.

And now that you have been forgiven, set free, and are unchained... you "may live a new life." You don't have to look back at all that stuff in your past. God doesn't. You don't have to be afraid of those things you'll do in your future. God isn't. He sees you right now as He sees His perfect, blameless, and righteous Son, Jesus. He's been waiting for you to realize this truth so He can help you begin living your new life.

Because He lives... because Jesus was raised from the dead and lives... you "may live a new life"... a life of freedom that is full of the life God wants you to live.

So what are you waiting for? Let's go live it!!

Happy Easter!

Thank you, Father, that in Your power and glory You raised him from the dead!

Todd