Living A Dying Life

As we draw closer to Easter and the celebration of a Risen Savior (the cornerstone of our faith) it is important for us to understand the type of life we can have with Jesus as our Savior. In the 24th chapter of Luke, we read about the women who come to the tomb where Jesus was buried. They are wanting to treat His (dead) body with spices as was the custom at that time. However, when they get there they find the tomb empty. Instead of Jesus, they encounter two angels who ask them why they are looking for the living among the dead?

Do you believe there is a difference between living and being alive? I do. One is experiencing all that life has to offer: good, bad, happy or sad. While the other is just going through the motions, trying to make it through life. As Christians, we are counted among the living even those that have been called home to be with the Lord (Matthew 22:32). The Bible also speaks about both a living and final death. By accepting Christ and receiving the Holy Spirit we have moved from death to life. We are to be alive in Christ both in this life and the next (when we get to heaven). As God's children, we get to live everyday knowing death has been defeated!

There is a wonderful old hymn that speaks of these very things. Read the words and smile as you think of the living assurance we have in Jesus:

I serve a risen Savior, He's in the world today

I know that He is living, whatever men may say

I see His hand of mercy, I hear His voice of cheer

And just the time I need Him He's always near

He lives! He lives! Christ Jesus lives today!

He walks with me and talks with me

Along life's narrow way

He lives! He lives! Salvation to impart!

You ask me how I know He lives?

He lives within my heart

In all the world around me I see His loving care

And though my heart grows weary I never will despair

I know that He is leading, thro' all the stormy blast

The day of His appearing will come at last

Rejoice, rejoice, O Christian! Lift up your voice and sing

Eternal hallelujahs to Jesus Christ, the King!

The Hope of all who seek Him, the Help of all who find

None other is so loving, so good and kind

Are you alive in Christ today?

Pastor Aaron