Risen!

Easter is the turning point of history where the cross and resurrection declare God’s power to redeem, restore, and renew.

Easter is more than a holiday marked by lilies and sunrise services. It’s the hinge on which all of history swings. The cross and resurrection of Jesus Christ represent the greatest love story ever told—a story so profound it leaves us awestruck and transformed.

The apostle Paul captured it perfectly: “God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8 NASB).

It’s God’s unmistakable declaration: “I love you too much to leave you where you are.” The cross wasn’t a tragic mistake. The resurrection wasn’t an afterthought. Together, they are evidence of God’s power to redeem, restore, and rewrite even the most broken of stories.

A Love Beyond Measure

On Good Friday, we remember the unimaginable sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. The perfect Lamb of God bore the weight of our sin and shame, willingly taking upon Himself the punishment meant for us (John 1:29). But don’t let the somber tone fool you—His death was not a defeat. It was a victory of love, orchestrated before the foundation of the world (Revelation 13:8).

And then came Sunday.

The resurrection transformed the agony of Friday into the triumph of eternity. The empty tomb isn’t just a piece of history—it’s the anchor of our hope. Through the resurrection, God extended what I call “The Great Exchange”:

• Our sin for His righteousness (2 Corinthians 5:21)
• Our sickness for His healing (1 Peter 2:24)
• Our scarcity for His abundance (John 10:10)
• Our death for His eternal life (Romans 6:23)

The resurrection doesn’t just promise us Heaven someday. It breathes life into our present circumstances. Paul wrote, “The Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you” (Romans 8:11 NASB). Let that sink in for a moment. The same power that rolled the stone away is alive and at work in you today.

Proof of the Resurrection

After Jesus’ death, His disciples were in despair and devastated. Their hopes and dreams had seemingly crumbled. Peter, the rock, denied even knowing Him. They scattered in fear, disillusioned and brokenhearted.

But everything changed when they encountered the risen Jesus.

They didn’t just hear rumors or read reports—they saw Him personally. They touched His wounds and spoke with Him. Thomas, who famously doubted the resurrection, declared with conviction after seeing Jesus, “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28 NASB). Over 500 people saw the risen Christ (1 Corinthians 15:3–8).

That firsthand knowledge turned terrified followers into fearless witnesses. They faced persecution, imprisonment, and even martyrdom, unwavering in their testimony. Why? Because they knew the resurrection wasn’t a tale or a myth. It was truth—truth that changed everything.

Why It Matters

The cross paid for our sins, but the resurrection proved the payment was enough. It’s God’s seal of approval, the divine Paid in Full stamped across the debt of humanity. No more striving. No more wondering if you’re loved. You are.

But the resurrection does more than forgive sin—it undoes the curse of Eden. It breaks the chains of sin, sickness, poverty, and death (Galatians 3:13–14). The resurrection declares that the enemy’s reign has ended. Through Jesus, you have victory. You have authority. James 4:7 assures us, “Resist the devil and he will flee from you” (NASB).

This victory extends beyond the spiritual realm into every facet of life. In a world marred by uncertainty, where fear and doubt often seem to dominate, the resurrection gives us unshakable confidence. It’s not a distant hope but a present reality, transforming how we see challenges, approach obstacles, and persevere through difficulties.

Easter is also a reminder that God is always working behind the scenes. Even when life seems bleak—like the silence of Saturday—His plans are in motion. He is faithful to complete the good work He has begun in you (Philippians 1:6).

Do you see it now? Easter isn’t just a date on the calendar. It’s an invitation to live in the reality of the resurrection.

No Need to Wait

In John 5, there’s a story about a man who had been sick for 38 years. He spent his days lying by the Pool of Bethesda, waiting for someone to help him into the waters when they stirred. His hope felt distant, dependent on others, out of reach.

Perhaps you can relate. Maybe you feel trapped by circumstances, haunted by past mistakes, or weighed down by fear. You’re waiting for something to change, for a miracle to come.

But here’s the good news: you don’t have to wait anymore. Because of the resurrection, the waters have already been stirred. The cross paid your debt, and the empty tomb rolled away the stone of despair.

Jesus didn’t just rise for humanity; He rose for YOU.

Need healing? The stripes on His back guarantee it (Isaiah 53:5).

Longing for peace? The Prince of Peace is alive and reigning (Isaiah 9:6).

Searching for purpose? The power of Jesus’ resurrection gives your life meaning and direction (Ephesians 1:18–20).

Whatever you’re waiting for, Jesus offers it freely.

The beauty of the resurrection is that it’s deeply personal. It assures you that no problem is too small or too overwhelming for God’s power. The same power that spoke the universe into existence, parted the Red Sea, and raised Lazarus from the dead is the same power that Jesus extends to you today.

Step into Your Victory!

The resurrection isn’t just an event to commemorate—it’s a life to embrace. Paul encourages us to “walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:4 NASB). This isn’t about striving to be better; it’s about stepping into the victory that Jesus has already secured.

What does that look like? It’s choosing faith when fear whispers lies. It’s speaking life over situations that seem dead. It’s believing that the same God who raised Jesus can restore your marriage, heal your body, and redeem your past.

It’s also about seeing your life as part of God’s grand narrative. He invites you to be a participant in the resurrection story—not just a spectator. Every act of kindness, every word of encouragement, and every step of faith reflects the power of the empty tomb at work in you.

Friend, the tomb is empty. Your Savior is alive. And because He lives, you can face tomorrow with confidence.

Your Turnaround Begins Today

Easter is God’s bold declaration: “I’ve done everything necessary to bring you home.” It’s the ultimate invitation to leave behind the old and step into the new.

So what’s holding you back? Fear? Doubt? Weariness? Lay them at the foot of the cross. The same power that conquered the grave can conquer whatever is holding you captive.

Your resurrection has come, and your new life in Him begins today.

Your partner in grace,