Easter promises new life to all who believe in the resurrected Christ.
Farm memories of soft, fluffy baby chicks, just a few days old, still bring me smiles. What began as an ordinary egg three weeks later scampered around the barnyard. Such a mystery of new life.
Now that I’m older, I see a direct correlation between those new-born chicks and the born-again life we find in Jesus Christ.
Freedom From Sin
Jesus’ death on the cross opened the way for all of us to experience freedom from sin’s bondage. Romans 3:23 tells us, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”.
Knowing we were born with a sin nature is a hard truth to swallow. I don’t like it any better than you do, but it’s true. It’s also true that God’s love made a way for us to be free from the penalty of sin. Through the sacrificial death and resurrection of His Son, Jesus Christ, we are washed clean.
But now he has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation. Colossians 1:22
Eternal Life is Ours
God plays no favorites. Salvation and eternal life are for everyone who professes faith in the shed blood of our Redeemer and Lord. Simple faith and a repentant heart are all He asks of us. Nothing more. You see, it’s all about Him and the cross of calvary, and not about any self-effort on our part.
Shame and Regret are Washed Away
Past experiences and poor choices weigh too many of us down with shame and regret. Jesus doesn’t want us to live with a yesterday focus or in an emotionally downward spiral. He longs for us to look up! The Savior took that weight upon His shoulders and chose to free us from a debt we could not pay. His pain bought us a pardon stamped, “Paid in Full”. With thankful hearts, we need only walk toward His waiting arms of love.
Even Death is Conquered
I have been to many memorial services. The death of a loved one or friend is an all too familiar experience. Most of us express grief with emotions of loss and sorrow. In our own strength it’s hard to make sense of death. But with Christ, we can. He declares, “Death has no hold on Him.” His day of atonement on the cross settled the matter forever. Many witnessed the resurrected Christ in the days following the crucifixion, and many know Him as the Risen Savior today. Do you? And because He arose, we will too.
The Christ of Easter Promises New Life
The tomb where Jesus was laid remains empty. I know because I stood at its entrance. My decision for Christ was reinforced that day. And the invitation never loses its power. Sin is not meant to win or master our lives. Sin is washed away, no matter its magnitude, when we come before the perfect Lamb of God who took away the sins of the world.
But He will not take away our free will to choose to follow Christ or the world. A personal decision must be made to take hold of the new life that is promised to everyone who puts their faith in the Lord Jesus.
When we look at an egg, will we think of new birth? When we celebrate Easter will we look beyond the colored eggs to the cross? And will we find the Christ of Easter also the Lord of our hearts?
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for Easter promises. Thank you for looking beyond the horrible pain of calvary to the hope it would bring us. Such courage and love are beyond understanding. But, without hesitation I run to take hold of such atonement. Thank you for creating new life in me. I can now feel abiding peace. Past shame is buried forever beneath Your holy blood. Going forward I desire to be an example of Your atoning grace. I am forever thankful. Amen
Coaches Corner:
If inviting Jesus into your heart seems awkward, talking with a Christ-centered relationship coach can help you take this important step forward. The first 30-minute session is free. https://www.rebuildingfamilies.net/a-life-coach-wants-to-help-you-achieve-your-goals/
