I have spent the better part of today alone and musing. I did have some lovely outdoor time hiking a nearby trail with a dear friend, but even then I spent more time listening or asking questions than talking about what’s rolling around inside.
Our Pastor Tim asked an open-ended question of his Easter Sunday audience: “What difference does the Resurrection make?” And I’ve been mulling it around in my head ever since.
Our family shared a huge feast with 25 others yesterday at my friend Sue’s home. The echo of the question was ringing in my ears keeping me distracted and not 100% in attendance with everyone sharing the Resurrection Cake (angel food—hole in the center covered with whipped cream) and singing three verses of “Up From the Grave He Arose”. I listened and asked questions, but still “What difference does the Resurrection make?” was tumbling in the background of my mind like a rock polisher at work in the garage.
And just like the rock tumbler sands off the edges and shines up a stone, pondering this gem of a question reminded me of this portion of Paul’s letter to the Colossian believers:
For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
That’s a power packed sentence but it says it well. Accepting the reality and work of Jesus Christ through the resurrection means we accept His rescue operation. You and I can have forgiveness for all we have ever done or said or thought that has been below God’s perfection. Not only are we forgiven but He has bought us back from the domain of darkness and put us into His kingdom!
Have you thought about this question? What difference does the Resurrection make?
It’s big. There’s more. Stay tuned…
Christ’s resurrection literally makes ALL the difference in the entirety of human history!!! If Christ did not literally/physically raise from the grave then our faith is absolutely empty. His resurrection is our eternal guarantee and hope, because He raised from the dead we know that He is eternally victorious over sin and death. His victory, power and authority affirm the fullness of His deity and establish the firm foundation upon which we can place our hope for salvation. Without the resurrection of Jesus Christ, that hope is entirely meaningless.
Very well said Matt! So glad to have your clear understanding shared here. Thanks for taking the time to write it out!