The Resurrection of Our Lord
Sunday, 27, March 2005
Acts 10:34-43
Colossians 3:1-4
John 20:1-9[10-18]
Psalm 118:1-2,15-24
Childrens sermon: Heidi showed the kids an empty box. Like that box, Jesus' tomb had nothing in it.
Sermon (Eberhart):
We say "crossed over" as a euphemism for death. We say they "expired," or "passed on." Then some say "crossed over." We often cross over the law. It's easy for us to break the commandments. We have little gods that we love before God. We act contrary to God's name, but we plea with God. How much of your heart do you invest with God? If you understand the law, you'll understand the resurrection. Parents give their children money, gifts, and excuses. Sometimes they kill with their words, tearing them up without weapons. We cheat, we tell lies. People learn that it's somehow "okay if you don't get caught." We feel inferior not knowing who we are. How much are you willing to invest with other people? The cross of Christ is greater than our sin. We can only say that because Jesus is alive. Jesus was either living in a fantasy world or a liar, if he is not God. If he was only correct about the cross and the scourging and the grave, then it's a waste. If Jesus hasn't risen, we have no one to go to. If Jesus hasn't risen, he can't draw all people to himself. It would only be a noble sacrifice. Jesus wasn't as hurried as an angel. People had time to hold him and be in his presence. They could see what was happening and savor the moment of Christ's resurrection. 95% of what you fear won't happen. Christ will handle the other 5%. Savor your time with Jesus in this moment. Don't be like Thomas.
The disciples thought Jesus was a ghost, but ghosts are supposed to be averse to anything aquatic. Jesus ate fish after the resurrection. He was not a figment, not a ghost, but alive. Jesus is raised, so we will be raised. We will live because Christ lives. We can now move from fear to faith. Cast your burdens upon Christ. You can't let hurt rule your life. Go from your dead actions to a living love through Christ.