Because He Lives

I love when the Lord awakens me with a song. As I lay in bed this morning, I found my heart singing the words to a famous gospel song, written by Bill and Gloria Gaither in 1971. According to *C. Michael Hawn, Discipleship Ministries, these words were written in a time when rumors of wars, national betrayals, assassinations, drug trafficking and social upheaval seemed to be the norm. The Gaither’s were expecting their third child. And as parents often do, they wondered about welcoming new life into their world.

As I researched this, I couldn’t help but wonder if we are experiencing ten times worse, what life was like in 1971. I don’t need to focus on our current events, they are before us daily. Technology allows us to access this world on a 24/7 basis.

Certainly, this world is filled with evil. I believe we are living the results of a nation that has turned its back on God. But oh! How I love God’s reminder this morning. “Because He lives, I can face tomorrow. Because He lives, all fear is gone. Because I know He holds the future; life is worth the living just because He lives”.

Friends, He lives. Jesus. He was crucified, died and was buried. But on the third day, his friends found an empty grave! Jesus had conquered death.

This is a game changer! This is Good News! This is our hope in a day when confusion and deceit pummel us daily. Jesus; died, buried and resurrected; gives us hope to live in uncertain times. We can not only live, but we can live fearlessly, because the God of Love is on our side! We can be overcomers! We hold the keys to peace! In Him, we are free!

Oh, precious Lord, today we thank you for your gifts. We’re especially thankful for eternal life with you! May you give each one that reads this; peace, grace and hope. May you meet us where we are. James 4:8 says; Draw near to the Lord and He will draw near to you! With gratefulness, we draw near to you. As you meet us here, may we experience your love, forgiveness and grace. For you alone, are the hope of the world. You offer the peace that passes all understanding. May you keep our hearts on thee. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

*umcdisipleship.org