Hundreds of years ago, an enormous free fell across a narrow but deep gorge in Arizona. Instead of rotting and falling, it eventually hardened like granite. Ultimately, it became a “bridge” that thousands have used to safely cross the deep gorge. Since its fall so many years ago, the dead tree has benefited countless people.
Just over 19 centuries ago, Jesus of Nazareth appeared to be the Messiah, whose arrival His nation had been eagerly anticipating. His divine teachings, astonishing miracles and unparalleled compassion touched thousands of needy, hurting souls. However, he was eventually rejected, betrayed, tried, beaten, scourged, and crucified. Following 6 agonizing hours on the cross, he breathed his last. His battered, pierced body was buried in a nearby tomb. His followers were distraught that their Leader had fallen! It appeared as if everything He said and did was pointless; their “Messiah” appeared to be a colossal failure.
3 days later, however, the fallen Leader became the greatest success in history! By God’s power, Jesus returned to life, emerged from the tomb, appeared to hundreds, and later ascended to His heavenly Father. He became the Living Bridge over which our feet may pass to eventually join Him in Heaven! The “fallen” Son of God turned out to be God’s greatest Gift to the world, making it possible for believers to safely cross the gorge of death.
Have you put your faith in the risen Savior? Are you still doing so? The empty tomb still stands as proof of His divinity! He is our only bridge to heaven. Believe in Him. Obey Him. Follow Him to the very end. And that is when life truly begins!
Jesus, always Jesus!
Dennis