By: Colonie Hughes, Executive Women’s Program Director/Co-Founder
Resurrection is God’s specialty. The most obvious example of this is, of course, Jesus, who rose from the grave three days after he died on the cross. But we also see this truth unfold all around us every spring when bare, gray landscapes burst forth with lush greenery. Whether in nature or our own lives, true transformation brings dead things to life.
Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone. But its death will produce many new kernels—a plentiful harvest of new lives. Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who care nothing for their life in this world will keep it for eternity.” (John 12:23-25)
Jesus was referring to his own death, which would make salvation available to the world. But he was also explaining a Kingdom principle that applies to all of us who follow Him: If we hold onto anything in this life too tightly, we risk losing our souls. Clinging to earthly things will eventually lead to our downfall.
On the flip side, if we pursue a relationship with Christ, we are guaranteed new life in Him! It doesn’t matter what our past looks like or how many mistakes we make along the way. He promises to restore what has been broken and redeem us from our guilt and shame.
Ephesians 2:4–6 says, “But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much, that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God’s grace that you have been saved!) For he raised us from the dead along with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ Jesus.”
So when you notice the buds on the trees or the bright blooms springing up from the ground, remember that death is required before new growth can emerge. What areas of your life need to be buried so you can experience the new life Christ offers?
