|
 Jesus
Christ, originally from Bethlehem, later of Nazareth, died mid-day
Friday surrounded by His mother, friends and devoted disciples, as
well as a mob of angry citizens and high priests. He is survived by
His mother, Mary, several half-siblings, and a multitude of friends
and followers who believe Him to be the Son of God.
Jesus was born to Mary and her betrothed husband, Joseph, during the
census issued by Caesar Augustus (because Joseph was of the lineage
of David). Immediately a host of angels appeared to shepherds nearby
announcing this miraculous birth: the long-awaited Messiah. The
little family escaped to Egypt when they learned of Herod’s plot to
kill all the baby boys under the age of two years because he
believed one of them would try to de-throne him.
Jesus spent His childhood learning Jewish history as
well as carpentry from His earthly dad, while also being diligent
going about His heavenly Father’s spiritual business. As a young
adult He hand-picked a band of 12 men, teaching them to carry on His
mission after His death. Jesus was baptized by His cousin John which
was the inaugural event of His ministry. During His 3-year ministry
He taught in the temple, in homes, on hillsides, and even from boats
as His audiences hung on every word from the shore. Jesus performed
many miracles during this time—curing blindness, leprosy, crippled
limbs, extreme fevers, etc.
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He fed thousands of listeners (who had overstayed
mealtimes) by miraculously multiplying just a couple of fish and a
few loaves of bread—to everyone’s fill and even had a dozen baskets
of food left over.
Although His death was tragic, cruel, and undeserved, Jesus was
obedient to His Heavenly Father’s plan for all of mankind—He died as
a sacrifice for everyone. “Very rarely will anyone die for a
righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to
die. But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were
still sinners, Christ died for us.” Jesus was sinless—what amazing
l.o.v.e.
Despite a heavy guard presence at the tomb, Jesus rose from the
grave on Sunday. He appeared to and instructed His disciples and
others for several weeks. Then Jesus led them to the vicinity of
Bethany where He blessed them and was taken up to Heaven, promising
to return one day for His faithful.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be used to win more
Christ-followers.
As we speak, Jesus is preparing a place in Eternity for those who
love and obey Him!
[Text from file received from
] |
