Eternal Victory: The Enduring Power of the Cross and Resurrection (04/02/'24) -Passage

Eternal Victory: The Enduring Power of the Cross and Resurrection At the heart of the message is the Cross, a symbol of profound sacrifice and redemption. This emblem represents God's boundless love, illustrating how He chose to leave the ninety-nine to seek and save the one, thereby securing salvation for all through His sacrifice. The work completed on the Cross is eternal—unchanged yesterday, today, and forever. It epitomizes the notion that some truths remain constant, undiminished by time or circumstance. The power of the Cross brings transformative grace and mercy into our lives, offering thanks to Christ Jesus for the purifying sacrifice made on our behalf. It's a vivid reminder that what was accomplished on the Cross is definitive and enduring, a testament to the idea that certain victories are so pivotal that their impact is everlasting. Despite the transitory nature of our world, where nothing seems to last forever, the victory achieved through the Cross is an exception. It stands as a perennial declaration that the ultimate battle has been won. This victory heralds a promise of recovery and renewal, affirming that the triumphs following trials can be greater than the challenges faced. God's unfolding project of redemption didn't end with the Cross but continued with the Resurrection, showcasing His power to bring life from death and good from evil. The resurrection is not just an event but a testament to God's ability to redeem and renew. The invocation of Jesus' words, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up," underscores the transformative power of faith and the certainty of restoration. It paints the crucifixion not as an end but as a doorway to resurrection and new life, with Christ as the ultimate remedy for our spiritual ailments. This narrative is not merely about the cessation of the sin-accounting business but is a vibrant story of renewal, hope, and the indomitable strength of divine love. Through these events, we are reminded that the darkest moments can precede the most glorious comebacks, with the cure for our deepest woes found in Christ's enduring love and sacrifice. Pastor Steven G. Lee (April 2, 2024)