“When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, ‘It is finished.’ Then bowing his head, he gave up his spirit.” – John 19:30

When Jesus walked this earth, he had a group of thousands that listened to his teachings, and a group of 12 disciples that went with him everywhere. Of those twelve, he had a group of three that were his very closest friends. All of these people had seen Jesus do miracles, listened to his incredible wisdom, and looked forward to him being the one who would rescue them from oppression, bringing God’s ultimate victory. They were sure that Jesus would be the one to finally establish God’s Kingdom…they knew he was the Messiah! Then after an unjust arrest and trial, a severe beating, and a crucifixion, Jesus died. The one they had put all their hope in was gone! What incredible shock! What incredible darkness! What incredible hopelessness they must have experienced! I can’t imagine how difficult those three days in the grave must have been for the ones who loved and followed Jesus. But what they did not realize is that the very thing they saw as ultimate defeat and hopelessness, was actually the greatest victory for them and for all mankind. Christ was not conquered by death; he was conquering death!

I hope remembering Jesus’s death and resurrection this Easter weekend brings you peace in your most hopeless times. When you think all is lost and there is no victory in sight, remember that the darkest day in history was actually the greatest victory in eternity. Whenever you feel like you have been defeated by the enemy, turn to Christ and see that he is still the conqueror, fighting your battles. And remember that no trial in all of life will ever be able to snatch you from his protective, loving hands.

Father, we thank You for the victory we have in Jesus Christ! May the ultimate victory of His death and resurrection remind us that He continues to win the battle for us every day. Let us never lose hope in the One who has conquered sin and death!

In Christ’s Service,

Pastor Shane Cannon