READ: LUKE 24
Yes, it was written long ago the Messiah would suffer and die and rise from the dead on the third day. (V. 46)
Each spring, just around Easter, the two redbud trees in my backyard produce beautiful pink blossoms. These blossoms are a reliable harbinger of the new life about to unfold in the form of young green leaves. These leaves will catch the light and produce the necessary nutrients which will awake the dormant trees from their winter sleep. Not only will the trees begin to flourish and grow, but new life will spring forth from their branches as baby birds appear in nests cradled among their branches. In my mind, the redbud trees are all part of God’s annual resurrection plan for his creation. They are a visual reminder of His sovereign power and glory.
While I love the beauty of the redbuds and watching their transformation, what I truly treasure in my heart is the Cross of Jesus. It was crafted from either a dogwood, olive or pine tree that had been cut down and was no longer alive. Upon this 9-foot high, 4-foot-wide piece of wood with a 7-foot cross beam, Jesus sacrificed his life for the sins of all mankind. An instrument of torture, suffering and death became the powerful symbol of our freedom from the dark powers of sin and death. This holy piece of wood, carved from a living piece of God’s creation, gives us the assurance of a future eternal life in the glory and vastness of heaven. Its incomparable power was fully realized when, from this tree of death, new life blossomed forth as Christ emerged from his grave-on Easter Sunday!
PAUSE FOR REFLECTION AND PRAYER
First the Cross. Then the grave. Then the resurrection. The redbuds are my reminder of what Jesus did for me and for all that will simply open confess him as their Lord and Savior. Thanks to Christ, the sting of sin and death gave way to renewed eternal life—God’s plan for his children!
Dear Jesus, thank you for your sacrifice that produced our never-ending eternal victory.
My fellow law enforcement brothers and sisters, I wish each of you a safe and Blessed Easter. May the Lord bless and keep you and your families; may He turn His face upon you; may He be gracious unto you; and may He keep you in His peace as you protect and serve your communities, states and nation.