Love Has Comeનમૂનો

The Good News of Easter

It’s amazing how, given the smallest opportunity, life can unravel. Diseases that have been long forgotten can return. Enemies that have been defeated can rebuild their forces. Attitudes, prejudices, and intolerances we believed to be finished begin taking hold in our culture again. At best, it makes us cynical; at worst, terrified. How can good win in a world where so much goes wrong? What can end the flood of destruction that sin has unleashed? To this, Jesus hung upon a cross and declared “It is finished!” 

It is Finished! The Good News of Easter

Kirk Douglas starred in the 1951 movie, “Ace in the Hole”, in which his character delivers the memorable line, “Bad news sells best. Cause good news is no news.” This quote resonates to this day. Pick any sphere of life: politics, the environment, education, sports, entertainment, etc. and then look at the news. It’s filled with stories of discouragement, deceit, and debauchery.

Our world is so immersed in bad news that we accept it as a way of life. We don’t dare to dream of something better for fear of having our hearts broken once again. But upon the cross, Jesus uttered 3 words that shatter this worldview. Three words which struck terror into the hearts of Satan and his minions. Three words that define the Good News of Easter!

Jesus knew that his mission was now finished and to fulfill Scripture, he said, “I am thirsty.” A jar of sour wine was sitting there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put it on a hyssop branch, and held it up to his lips. When Jesus had tasted it, he said, “It is finished!” Then he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. – John 19:28-30

The Bible teaches us in 1 Corinthians 13:7 “Love never gives up.” Let that sink in. With the full weight of our sin crashing down upon Him, Jesus held fast until the work of our redemption was accomplished. Love won! This is the Good News of Easter.

Reflection

What would you like to see God finish in your life? What sin would you have him conquer? What dream would you have him accomplish? Remember the words of your Savior, “It is finished!”

Prayer

Father, you have promised to finish the good work you have begun in me. Help me to receive this promise and trust in your goodness. Thank you that your love has come!