Do you ever feel – in the middle? Having survived tragedy or loss, but still waiting for the future hope and peace that is promised? We must wait, but not as those with no hope. It was while Jesus was waiting that He set the captives free.
When I was in Israel, one of the most powerful moments for me was at the Garden Tomb. I entered the empty tomb, and after my eyes adjusted to the darkness, saw the white garments folded on the stone bench. Turning to exit the tomb and enter the light, I saw a rough, wooden sign that read:
Seeing those words in that place was a powerful reminder that He has risen – JUST AS HE SAID! What else did He say?
We have been healed:
“He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed.”-1 Peter 2:24
We have a future:
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
So we must:
“Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.” – Titus 1:2
“Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” Hebrews 12:2-3
Today, while still in the middle, this is my prayer for you:
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” – Romans 15:13
May you have a most blessed Resurrection Day! May you rejoice with Him who rose from the dead to give you eternal life, who endured the darkness to bring us with Him into the light. And may you be preparing for the ultimate feast, worship and garments yet to come!!
I loved what you wrote about being in the middle. I find myself in the middle often. Your script was very encouraging to me The writing was beautiful and the way it all flowed was amaziing. I copied it for my records. I read yousr blog regularly now.
Ann C.
"the ultimate feast, worship and garments yet to come!!" Woo-hoo! Isn't that the greatest thought? Thanks for a great post, Susan! May you have a very blessed Easter!
Susan:
It is fitting that I read this on Saturday. All my work as a director is done. I have to wait for the drama to be given tomorrow.
Waiting hasn't always been my long suit. I have had to learn the skill.
I noticed you said Jesus waited in the tomb. I hadn't thought of that. Thank you for giving me something to think on.
You are blessed with great insight my friend! I don't think it can be stressed enough that waiting is a very productive activity. If Jesus' waiting in the grave produced the freedom of those captive how much more should we be willing to wait, not as a required pause but as a holy work. Blessings!