Passage of the Day:
When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: “Death has been swallowed up in victory.”[h] 55 “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?”[i] 56 The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. 57 But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain, 1 Corinthians 15:54-58.
Reflection:
Pop culture in America glorifies horror movies all month long. This blitz of death and gore comes to a climax every Halloween, on October 31st. Up until now, I have kept my devotions free from current events. Yet, as I read today’s featured passage, I am reminded of the most horrific act ever committed nearly 2000 years ago. However, just like villains’ that never seem to die, Jesus of Nazareth rose from the dead and ascended into heaven, Matthew 28:5-15. This is the hope of everlasting life.
Prayerful Action:
I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life. 14 This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. 15 And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him, 1 John 5:13-15.
Clinging to a Glimmer of Hope this Fall:
Prior to the resurrection of Jesus, Father Time was undefeated. However, as the apostle Paul breaks down the spiritual elements of Jesus’ victory over death to the Church at Corinth, the hope of life everlasting was conceived. Following Jesus’ death on Good Friday, hopelessness spread throughout the land. Based upon the words of John 21, some of the disciples went back to their old jobs as fishermen. Yet, Easter Sunday provides the greatest comeback story of all time. As news spread through the Middle East of Jesus’ resurrection, the hope of life everlasting became a reality.
Song of the Day:
Final Thoughts:
I was introduced to today’s song at a retreat in high school. May the lyrics of the Champion inspire you like it did for me many years ago.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 