How can such a dark event bring such a bright dawn?
An Easter
devotional by Ron Otto, preaching
minister at Lincoln Christian Church
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[March 09, 2013]
The current economic recession
has brought about a great loss of hope for many Americans. The word
is, more and more people are giving up. We have more and more job
loss, failed mortgages and accumulation of debt that is out of
control.
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At the same time, it's also given us an opportunity, especially at
Easter, to remind the faithful that there is more to life than
material goods. What is it that makes for a good life? A 401(k)?
Money in the bank? We know better than that. Money has never brought
true happiness, satisfaction or peace.
The hope of Easter may provide some of us weary,
recession-gripped churchgoers an opportunity to have hope again.
What Easter says is that no matter how difficult circumstances
are, God has the last word. Resurrection eclipsed the dark Friday
crucifixion.
Easter Sunday gives proof that there's something more than all
this pain and hurt around us.
People are looking for answers, for help, for hope. This is a
great time for believers to spring into action and extend our
optimism to others.
God has always wanted to bring mankind hope. The essence of the
Bible story -- the Israelites' journey from captivity to exodus, the
coming of a Messiah and the return of a Savior -- are all meant to
bring hope.
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The story of Lazarus' rising is a great reminder that there is
hope for humans' greatest fear: death.
Christ's death was considered a hopeless situation. But then came
Sunday, and hope was realized… hope was restored. That's how we can
face dark days: because we are assured a new day is coming.
One of the things Americans love is a good comeback story. That's
the beauty of Easter: It's one of the greatest comeback stories of
all time.
While the Easter message is celebratory and inspirational, while
we are reminded of the hope of resurrection at this time of year, it
is a timeless message good for all year long. And maybe it is a
message you need today.
It may feel like Friday in your life now, but hold on! Sunday is
coming!
[By RON OTTO, preaching minister,
Lincoln Christian
Church] |