New Life in Christ

              The first day of spring has past us on the calendar and although we anticipate warmer weather, cold days remain. Despite the temperature, there are definite sign of spring in

nature. Daffodils, tulips and crocuses are blooming. Robins are repopulating our yards and gardens. Geese are migrating northward hunting their nesting grounds. The hardware stores are full of baby chicks and ducks. Lawnmowers can be heard running as people try to keep their lawns in pristine condition. Multiple Easter Egg Hunts are planned and advertised by churches and social organizations. Easter itself is associated with springtime as the date is determined by the vernal equinox or the first day of Spring.

                Not only do these messengers signify Spring, but they also announce new life. Grass becomes green after dormancy in the winter. Barren trees and shrubs burst forth with new leaves and blossoms. Many people experience a new wave of energy which has been dampened by the dullness and drabness of winter.

                For Christians the celebration of the resurrection is also a reminder of the new life we have in Jesus Christ. Our new life begins when we acknowledge Jesus as our Savior and make Him the Lord of our lives. When that decision is made, the Holy Spirit comes to live within us and direct our lives. Old habits, ways of thinking, old patterns of conversation and interaction with others are abolished. We are given a second chance to live a holy life pleasing to God. We are no longer slaves captivated by Satan and his evil ways.

                Paul states in II Cor 5: 19 “If any man be in Christ, he is a new creation, old things have passed away. Behold all things become new.” This is the essence of the gospel, the good news.

                Although we are thankful for the new life we enjoy in our earthly existence, we also can be thankful that our lives extend beyond our time travelling through this world. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” Prior to the resurrection, mankind had never experienced this kind of new life.

                Prayerfully and with the assistance of the Holy Spirit, we can experience our new life in Christ without any reservations and with confidence that we will serve Him so that others may see His glory.

Happy living,

Pastor Dave