Faith & Insight: Have you heard the good news?

Have you heard the good news? Jesus is alive! He’s risen from the dead!

My husband Louis and I attended his 55th class reunion this last year. It was good to see old friends, but bittersweet to learn of those fellow classmates who had passed on. The list was long, and continues to grow longer. It made us think, yes, it’s going to happen to all of us; one day, we are going to die.

I like to think of it as being “called home” to heaven because of my faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. The Bible tells us Jesus is the resurrection and the life, “The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.” (John 11:25-26)

“Then, when our dying bodies have been transformed into bodies that will never die, this Scripture will be fulfilled: “Death is swallowed up in victory. Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” (1 Corinthians 15:54-55)

It’s good news that death has been swallowed up in victory by the sufferings of our beloved Savior on the cross. He died to pay for our sins but He also rose from the grave.

The untimely death of a loved one or friend still causes grief, heartache, pain and mourning, but we can be comforted by God and the promises in his word. I no longer need to be afraid of death; it will be a transition from this life to life eternal. Knowing there is death, I also know there is resurrection from the dead and life after death.

God’s word exhorts us to “stand firm in your faith! Let nothing move you! Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 15:58)

Surrender to Jesus. Invite the presence and power of God to give hope and peace in the midst of sorrow and loss.

Happy Easter. Happy Resurrection Day. Celebrate with me the good news. The defeat of death and the hope of salvation in Jesus Christ. Hallelujah!

Rev. Peggy Locke is co-founding pastor of Carson City Foursquare Church, assisting minister at Reno Hillside Foursquare Church, specialized chaplain.