The resurrection is the foundation that distinguishes the Christian faith from all other faiths and systems of thought. It is not just a “pie in the sky” idea. We either believe Jesus died on the cross and rose from the dead or He did not. The apostle Paul indicated that more than 500 people testified to Jesus’ resurrection, “…. he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time…” (1 Cor. 15:6). Many of the early Christians died for their belief in the resurrection.
The reality of the resurrection is critical. At the Mission, our primary vision is that Jesus can change lives now and for eternity. This rests on the foundation that Jesus who overcame sin and death can change any situation on our behalf – no matter how bleak or difficult. He can set the addict free; He can heal the broken; He can bring the turnaround that is needed. What He did at the cross and the grave, He can do for us and those who seek Him.
The chorus of the song “Because He Lives” sums up our hope and faith so well. Truly our Lord and Savior Jesus lives!
“Because He lives
I can face tomorrow
Because He lives
All fear is gone
Because I know
He holds the future
And life is worth the living
Just because He lives (He lives)”
(Bill and Gloria Gaither)
