But the men said to the [women who had come to the tomb], "Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen" (Luke 24:5)
Yesterday, I addressed the events that have recently befallen our nation - the deaths of African-Americans Alton Sterling and Philando Castile at the hands of white police officers, and the deaths of white police officers Lorne Aherns, Michael Krol, Mike Smith, Brent Thompson, and Patrick Zamarripa at the hands of a black gunman. You can listen to the sermon HERE.
I am a firm believer that the most important and vital message that we offer as Christians is the message that God brings "new life out of death." This message of resurrection is the hope and promise of our faith. It is the promise that God in Christ will work through the sin, brokenness, and suffering of human events to bring about God's purpose of new life and reconciliation. Despite seeming evidence to the contrary, I believe this to the core of my being.
The resurrection of Jesus was a one-time event, but it inaugurates the Kingdom of God, where resurrection, reconciliation, restoration, and redemption are all-the-time experiences. God is forever bringing "new life" from the assorted "deaths" that we experience in this world. Amidst our recognition of death and brokenness, we must faithfully seek the Living Word that will graciously offer healing and hope. Always. Forever. Faithfully. Lovingly.
Guide us toward healing and reconciliation Lord Jesus. Amen.
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