The Joy of the Resurrection!
It was a joy to come together to worship God on Easter Sunday and take Communion with the brethren behind prison walls.
Truly, the resurrection of Jesus, our Savior, means everything!
We opened our Bibles to Matthew 28:1-10 and were reminded of the wonderful truths concerning the resurrection of Jesus Christ. First, there is PROOF that Jesus surely died and was raised three days later by the power of God. Secondly, Matthew affirms that the glorious resurrection of Jesus comes with PROMISES. Those who repent and put their faith in Jesus Christ for salvation are promised to be resurrected to eternal life to never die again - just like Jesus! Lastly, there is a PROFOUND JOY associated with the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The believer’s joy is a deep-seated, supernatural emotion produced by the Holy Spirit, rooted in union with Christ rather than mere favorable external circumstances. It is a PROFOUND, lasting contentment and delight in God’s love and goodness. God so loved the world that He sent Jesus to die on the cross for the forgiveness of sin and those who repent and believe shall be raised to everlasting life in the presence of the Father!
I reminded the brothers that for believers, the fear and finality of death are removed and replaced with joy! And that Jesus’ resurrection proves that He is alive and provides us with the comfort, peace, and strength we need right now - even to those behind prisons walls!
Praise God for the resurrection of Jesus Christ who gives us the power to live a risen life both now and forever!
To God be the glory!
With Love and Blessings,
Pastor James