The last fortress to break down, death

Jesus says that he is the resurrection and the life, that death has no power for anyone who believes in him. He speaks of a profound truth that goes beyond physical death: eternal life through faith in Him. The miracle of Lazarus, whom Jesus resurrects after being dead for four days, demonstrates God's power over death and suffering. But the hearts of the people present, dominated by sadness and pain, could not immediately understand the power of this miracle.

When someone we love passes away, the pain of loss can become a mental fortress that prevents us from seeing beyond. The refusal to accept the reality of death, the inability to process grief, can lead to suffering that holds us prisoners in our hearts. This suffering can create a disappointment that blocks us, making us forget that death does not have the last word. Jesus offers us a different perspective: death, understood as separation from God, has no power over those who believe in Him.

Paul proclaims: "O death, where is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?" Death is a physical reality that we all face, but for believers, death is no longer an invincible enemy. Although our bodies are still subject to the laws of corruption and physics, when we are resurrected we will be transformed and receive a glorious body, a body that will no longer be subject to death or suffering. This change is only possible because of the resurrection of Jesus, who conquered death and offers us living hope.

The mental fortresses that death and loss can build in our hearts are destroyed when we recognize that Jesus is eternal life. Only in Him can we overcome the pain of separation and find peace.

I hope this plan has helped you on your spiritual journey.

I want to thank dear brother Lorenzo Russo who gave the useful idea to create this reading plan.

God bless you, Pastor Carmelo Orlando