He's Alive!

In order to talk about Jesus' resurrection, we should first talk about his death. This is such a hard video to watch; please be advised that it's very graphic. I hate the fact that Jesus had to suffer so much. But that's how much he loved us. He took the punishment that we deserve so that we can be forgiven. 

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.-John 3:16-17

This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.  Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.-1John 4:10-11

But today, we celebrate the most amazing event of all: his resurrection. 

There are two places in Israel that may have been the tomb where Jesus was laid, although I believe the evidence points more to this site, the Garden Tomb, as being the real one. Either way, the point is what happened. He rose!

This cross was drawn on the wall inside the tomb sometime around the first century:

Standing inside the tomb I felt so much joy! Being there was just incredible. Outside a group was singing and clapping to the song, and it added to my happiness. Everywhere you go in Israel, there are other believers from all over the world learning and worshiping. This sign is on the door leading out of the tomb:

Today we can celebrate that we have a risen Savior, one who is living today, and has sent his Holy Spirit to live inside us as our helper. I know this: he has completely transformed my life. He is my comfort, my joy, my rock, my Savior, my life. Before Jesus ascended into heaven he had some final words.

..."All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Matthew 28:18-20

This world is such a desperate place. Let's bring the good news of his transforming love to as many as will listen. He is surely with us. Happy Easter, and I wish you all blessings!