So many people know of Jesus as the baby in the pretty, little manger with a halo. Those same people would go on to describe Mary sitting by the manger and Joseph standing beside her. There is nothing wrong with this scene; however, it is our responsibility as Christians to let these people know that Jesus is no longer in a manger. Sometimes, we have to remind ourselves of this fact also. Not only did He grow up, but He put the burden of sin for the whole world on His shoulders. The Bible doesn't say much about Jesus' childhood, but it does say in Luke 2:51 "Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men." From there we move into Jesus' ministry. He healed the sick, opened blind eyes, made lame men walk, and performed various other miracles. He also caused a lot of controversy along the way, which brought about His arrest. We tend to find parts of the Bible that we like, and stop there. We pitch our tents, and set-up camp, so to speak. Sometimes, we forget that there is more to the story. For instance, some stop (set-up camp) at the crucifixion of Jesus. They fondly think about the picture of Jesus on the cross wearing a crown of thorns and a wrap around His waist. We need to let them know that He is not there any more! It is good to remember, but don't stay there. If we do, we will miss out on so many blessings. Luke 23:44-46, 50, 52-53 NKJV reads: 44 Now it was about the sixth hour, and there was darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour. 45 then the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was torn in two. 46 and when Jesus had cried out with a loud voice, He said, "Father, ' into Your hands I commit My spirit.' " Having said this, He breathed His last. 50 Now behold, there was a man named Joseph, a council member, a good just man. 52 This man went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. 53 Then he took it down, wrapped it in linen and laid it in a tomb that was hewn out of the rock where no one had ever lain before. Jesus is no longer on the cross. He was buried in a tomb behind a boulder. But thankfully, that is not how the story ends. Revelations 1:17-18 NKJV says 17 And when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, "Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. 18 I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death." So once again, I ask, where's Jesus? He's not in a manger. He's not on the cross. He must be in the tomb. NO! HE'S RISEN! Many have looked for Him on earth, but to no avail. Luke 24:5b-6a NKJV says 5 ..."Why do you seek the living among the dead? 6 He is not here, but is risen! Remember..." Well, that doesn't make sense. Why would He come to earth, die, and then raise from the dead? Titus 2:11-14 NKJV says 11 For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, 12 teaching us that denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, 13 looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, 14 who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works. He lived, to give us an example of how to live on this earth. He died, because He had to redeem us of our sins, in order for us to be able to live satisfied lives. He rose, so that He could be our intercessor, allowing us to have direct access to God, the Father. So, where's Jesus? He's in our hearts. And He is whispering in the Father's ears on our behalf. Happy Easter! I hope you enjoyed reading the word of God in a new light. Have a Happy Wednesday! God Bless, Min. Tommy & Sis. Shatika Gray Additional Scriptures NKJV John 3:16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. Rev 3:20-21 20 Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me. 21 To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, and I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. |
| Where's Jesus? Apr. 7, 2004 |