Problems Relieved

Today is Easter Sunday, a holiday that comes around every year. While most of the world looks to rabbits, eggs, and candy, that is not the meaning of the day. Instead of eating sweets that can serve to make you ill and overweight, this is the day when our biggest problem was solved.

About 2,000 years ago, Jesus was crucified on a cruel Roman cross. Some of Jesus' followers thought He was the expected Messiah and would free Israel from political bondage. After being betrayed by a disciple and receiving a corrupt trial by Jewish leaders, He was quickly sent to execution and died a horrific death. However, the account doesn't end there.

On the first day of the week, Sunday morning, Jesus conquered death and rose again. He was seen by many witnesses, 500 at one instance, and proved He was alive. Now, all who repent of their sins (lying, theft, lust, blasphemy, etc.) and come to Jesus Christ alone for forgiveness can receive everlasting life. It is a problem that everybody has, but not one everyone realizes exists.

For the past couple weeks, I've been feeling a little under the weather, tired, uncomfortable stomach, and always feeling cold. As I'm writing this, I feel like I could take a nap, but know I won't get any rest. While we have problems in this life that can go from annoying to extreme physical and/or emotional pain, they are nothing compared to the life to come.

Whoever does not come to Christ, will receive everlasting torment in hell where their is weeping, and gnashing of teeth, the fire is not quenched and the worm does not die. As sinners, this is what we deserve and bring judgment upon ourselves. Nothing in this life, no matter how bad, can compare to the suffering to come. However, this is what Jesus has saved us from, that we may have eternal life with Him.

Descriptions of heaven include streets of gold, no more death, crying or pain. Jesus will wipe away every tear from our eyes and we will live in the new heaven and earth. When any ailment comes in this life, it should make us look forward all the more to the life to come. I don't know what the week ahead will bring, but I remember this day of celebration and the gift we have been given.