Why do you look for the Living Among the Dead?

Why Do You Look for the Living Among the Dead?

These words are found in Luke 24 when the women go to bring spices to the tomb of Jesus. They are shocked to see the tomb empty and then they get the special message that Jesus is alive.

This great moment happened almost 2000 years ago. Things would happen in the following days that would bolster the faith of the true believers that had remained with Jesus. He visited the 12 apostles, the other disciples and 500 believers.

During this time His followers were not only encouraged in their faith but he told them (the 120) to wait in the upper room for a special miracle. They waited for days and somehow they got to the place where they were of One Accord and the Holy Spirit fell upon them and baptized them.

All these events led to the beginning of the Christian church. This week we celebrate everything that Jesus did on our behalf. He endured the cross and it's shame. He became our intermediary and the veil of the Temple was torn in two so that we could enter into the Lord's presence. He became our perfect, once and forever sacrifice; most importantly He rose from the dead.

Now, Jesus sits at the right hand of the father interceding for us. He is not dead! He is very alive! One day He is returning and many of us strongly believe it will be soon.

The many events of the last year (2020-2021) have caused division and strife even within churches. People are arguing over anything and everything. People, even Christians, boldly point their fingers at others and hurl accusations and criticisms. Some have walked away from faith itself which is so troubling at this time. Those scripture says many will fall away from the faith
"The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons." (1 Timothy 4:1 NIV)

This must all break the heart of our Father God who desires that we dwell together in unity and that we not forsake fellowship even as the day of Jesus' return approaches.

My heart's cry is that we all remember that Jesus is alive. None of I should live as if He truly died some 2000 years ago. He's coming for His church. A glorious Church without "spot or wrinkle."

Only the blood shed on the cross makes us righteous. Nothing we do in our own strength or wisdom qualifies us to be in good standing when we stand before our creator. This passion week take time to reflect on everything Jesus has done for you. Let's look at our own lives and with sober judgment and make sure that we are living lives that acknowledge that HE IS ALIVE!!

He is Risen!!

Pastor Derek Forseth