Abundant Life
Easter is over. The last notes of the uplifting songs of resurrection have faded away. The new clothes have been hung in the closet, the leftovers stored in the refrigerator. It is monday morning, and we are back into the usual routine.
But perhaps this particular monday morning is different. Did the familiar story of the resurrection somehow touch our hearts in a new way? Or did we hear for the first time the gospel message that Jesus died for our sins, was buried and rose again on the third day? Did the tiny seed of new life begin to take root in our hearts? Did His grace touch the hurting, broken places in our hearts and bring healing?
Easter is an exciting, glorious celebration of life, but it is only the beginning. Jesus came to rescue us from the power of sin and death – and He came to bring us life here and now. The life He offers is not one free of trouble or sorrow, but it is a life lived in the abundance of His blessing. He offers us joy for our sorrow, peace for our fear, hope for our despair, and healing for our bodies and souls. He has promised to walk with us through whatever circumstances come our way, to strengthen and help us, to uphold us with His strong right hand. We need never again be alone, for He is a friend that sticks closer than any brother.
When He was here on earth, Jesus told His disciples, “…I came that they might have life and might have it abundantly.” John 10:10 He didn’t come so that we could barely make it through this life. He came to bring us life in all of its joys and blessings. In the midst of the very worst of circumstances that is still true. If we will but trust Him, He will supply everything that we need.
In His Love,
Linda
It definitely touched me yesterday and Saturday afternoon when my husband and I watched The Passion of the Christ on dvd. I have had a number of emotional struggles over our finances and our future. Revisiting the reality of the cross has renewed my trust, faith and hope in My heavenly Father that he knows what he is doing. Also, confidence in my Savior that he know my needs and feels my pain, since he lived here and went through much pain for me. Every tear is recorded and God knows the numbers of the hairs on my head, which change by the minute as they fall on my shoulder or get loosened and fall into my brush. God knows what will happen this afternoon and tomorrow and I can trust Him. Though it may continue to be hard. He is always there and he does care.
Thanks for this reminder that Easter Sunday can affect this day and the days, weeks, and months ahead.
Linda, yes, He never promised that life would be easy, but knowing that He is there with us, that He experienced hardship Himself, brings comfort to my heart.
Thank you for sharing your wisdom with us.
I truly enjoyed your post. May we keep Easter in our hearts every day this year…
Beautiful post.
Wonderful words to reflect on this Monday…..we do enjoy an abundant life, don’t we? Grace for every need….
I am so glad that the power and love that the Resurrection offers is not just for one day a year but daily …may we remember and reflect and honor Christ for His sacrifice. -blessings, Laurie