# Easter Celebration: It's Finished, But It's Not Over
Sunday, we gathered to celebrate the most significant day in the Christian faith—Easter Sunday! This is our Super Bowl, the day we commemorate the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. As we reflect on the events leading up to this glorious day, we are reminded that while the work of the cross was finished, the story was far from over.
## The Journey to the Cross
Last week, we celebrated Palm Sunday, the day Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a humble donkey, symbolizing peace and humility. The crowds shouted "Hosanna!" in celebration, but little did they know that just days later, many of them would turn against Him, shouting "Crucify Him!" Jesus was riding into the city with a mission—to die for our sins. He knew the path ahead, and despite the praise, He was destined for the cross.
## The Finished Work of the Cross
As we delve into the significance of the cross, we must understand that it represents a finished work. Romans 6:23 tells us, "For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord." The penalty for sin is death, a separation from God. But through Jesus, we receive the gift of eternal life. The word "but" in this verse is powerful, contrasting death with life. Jesus came to rescue us from sin, bearing our guilt and shame on the cross. When He declared, "It is finished," He meant that the debt was fully paid, the sentence served, and the battle won.
## The Resurrection: The Promise of New Life
While the cross signifies the end of Jesus' earthly suffering, it also marks the beginning of our hope. The resurrection is the cornerstone of our faith. Romans 1:4 states that Jesus was declared the Son of God by His resurrection from the dead. This event proves His power over death and sin, offering us victory and eternal life.
The resurrection is not just a historical event; it is a transformative experience. Ephesians 2:4-6 reminds us that God, rich in mercy, gave us life when He raised Christ from the dead. Jesus is the resurrection and the life, and anyone who believes in Him will live, even after dying.
## Living Proof of the Resurrection
The evidence of the resurrection is not only found in scripture but also in the lives of believers today. Many of us can testify to the transformative power of Jesus in our lives. We are living proof that the resurrected King is indeed resurrecting lives.
As we conclude our celebration, I invite you to reflect on the significance of this day. Jesus offers us a relationship, not just a religion. He is the way, the truth, and the life. If you feel a tug on your heart, know that it is not by chance you are here. Jesus loves you and desires a relationship with you.
## An Invitation to New Life
If you are ready to accept this free gift of salvation, I encourage you to pray with me. Acknowledge that Jesus died for your sins and rose again, offering you eternal life. This is the beginning of a new journey filled with hope, peace, and joy.
As we continue to move forward, remember that it is finished, but it is not over. The resurrection has come, and Jesus is alive! Let us celebrate this truth together.
Happy Easter! May the joy of the risen King fill your hearts today and always.
Sunday, we gathered to celebrate the most significant day in the Christian faith—Easter Sunday! This is our Super Bowl, the day we commemorate the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. As we reflect on the events leading up to this glorious day, we are reminded that while the work of the cross was finished, the story was far from over.
## The Journey to the Cross
Last week, we celebrated Palm Sunday, the day Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a humble donkey, symbolizing peace and humility. The crowds shouted "Hosanna!" in celebration, but little did they know that just days later, many of them would turn against Him, shouting "Crucify Him!" Jesus was riding into the city with a mission—to die for our sins. He knew the path ahead, and despite the praise, He was destined for the cross.
## The Finished Work of the Cross
As we delve into the significance of the cross, we must understand that it represents a finished work. Romans 6:23 tells us, "For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord." The penalty for sin is death, a separation from God. But through Jesus, we receive the gift of eternal life. The word "but" in this verse is powerful, contrasting death with life. Jesus came to rescue us from sin, bearing our guilt and shame on the cross. When He declared, "It is finished," He meant that the debt was fully paid, the sentence served, and the battle won.
## The Resurrection: The Promise of New Life
While the cross signifies the end of Jesus' earthly suffering, it also marks the beginning of our hope. The resurrection is the cornerstone of our faith. Romans 1:4 states that Jesus was declared the Son of God by His resurrection from the dead. This event proves His power over death and sin, offering us victory and eternal life.
The resurrection is not just a historical event; it is a transformative experience. Ephesians 2:4-6 reminds us that God, rich in mercy, gave us life when He raised Christ from the dead. Jesus is the resurrection and the life, and anyone who believes in Him will live, even after dying.
## Living Proof of the Resurrection
The evidence of the resurrection is not only found in scripture but also in the lives of believers today. Many of us can testify to the transformative power of Jesus in our lives. We are living proof that the resurrected King is indeed resurrecting lives.
As we conclude our celebration, I invite you to reflect on the significance of this day. Jesus offers us a relationship, not just a religion. He is the way, the truth, and the life. If you feel a tug on your heart, know that it is not by chance you are here. Jesus loves you and desires a relationship with you.
## An Invitation to New Life
If you are ready to accept this free gift of salvation, I encourage you to pray with me. Acknowledge that Jesus died for your sins and rose again, offering you eternal life. This is the beginning of a new journey filled with hope, peace, and joy.
As we continue to move forward, remember that it is finished, but it is not over. The resurrection has come, and Jesus is alive! Let us celebrate this truth together.
Happy Easter! May the joy of the risen King fill your hearts today and always.