1 Corinthians 15-16

Resurrection.

The resurrection serves as the foundation for our faith.  Without the resurrection, our faith is meaningless.  While the cross and the forgiveness at the cross is significant, it is the resurrection that gives us hope.  Paul writes that if the resurrection is false, then we should live for today rather than planning for life with God.  This truth helps us in our day to day living.  Recognizing that there is an eternity with God, we walk with God today.  We practice self-restraint and learn selflessness in light of an eternity with God.  Our decisions reflect that this world is not our home.  We live enthusiastically in this world because by faith we can see the world that is to come.  Things like the death of a loved one affects us, but we know that death does not have the final word.  God’s final word is the resurrection.  Death no longer has power over us.  This truth captures our heart and allows us to live with joy and purpose.  May the light from that first empty tomb be a reminder of what God has planned for us.