"Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?
The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God!
He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm.
Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain."
(I Corinthians 15:55-58)
Paul spends much of this chapter making his case for the resurrection. Some were questioning its validity and he quickly had become its apologist. Today's text is his concluding statement and what a statement it is! He calls death out, proclaiming that victory cannot be claimed by the tomb. Victory has come through the risen Christ, and for all who believe, resurrection has provided a platform upon which to stand. Love has conquered and continues to conquer. Therefore, life has meaning and purpose...therefore we give ourselves fully to the work of the Lord...therefore we know that what we attempt for Christ is not in vain. Death is defeated...life overcomes. That is the message of Easter. That is the hope of this and every day. That, brothers and sisters, is the joy of Easter. Thanks be to God!
Prayer: Love has paid the price for sin, O God, and life has conquered death. This is the good news of Easter. Thanks be to God, indeed! Amen.
Friends, this concludes our Lenten journey together. From Ash Wednesday to Easter Sunday, we have walked together the pathway of Christ. May the living Christ continue to guide your steps as you daily take up your cross and follow after him.
Jim Abernathy
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