The Resurrection and the Life

Scripture Reading — John 11:17-27, 38-43

“I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live. . . .”
— John 11:25

I don’t know about you, but I tend to think of resurrection as an abstract or distant thing—as if it is only about Easter Sunday or a date on the end-times calendar.

But, no—and more profoundly— Resurrection is a name for Jesus! “I am the resurrection . . .” he said. Resurrection is a “right now” reality in the unique person of Jesus Christ.

It’s the same with life. Life is not mainly about having a beating heart and brain waves. Nor is it something we get or make or buy or achieve. Life is a name for Jesus. “I am . . . the life . . .” he said. And in a prayer to his Father, Jesus said, “Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent” (John 17:3).

When we reject a relationship with the Life himself and say “No thanks” to Jesus, then, essentially we are like dead people walking (see Ephesians 2:1-5). Rejecting Jesus is like staying in a tomb.

Sin is a tomb. Self is a tomb. Unforgiveness is a tomb. Pornography is a tomb. Fear, perfectionism, pride, envy . . .— tombs are everywhere!

Hear the voice of the One whose name is the Resurrection and the Life: “Come out!” That tomb is no place for you. Why look for life among the dead? (See Luke 24:5.)

Anyone who looks to Jesus will live. Eternity starts today!

Lord Jesus, who is like you? Thank you for being “the resurrection and the life” to all who believe in you. Amen.

Written by: Lora Copley