5/4/2025: Third Sunday of Easter

BECAUSE HE LIVES

It is easy to become so engrossed in the details of historical events—who, when, where—that we miss their significance. For example, consider World War II. There are many compelling stories. Lots of dates and data to remember. However, for a moment, set all that aside, and just imagine the Allies had lost. How would the world be different today? What would life be like for those of Jewish heritage? Would freedom exist in Europe? Would we be speaking German? With historical events, you miss out if you focus only on the details: who, when, where. You also need to focus on what that historical event means. The Allies won. That means something!

In this season of Easter, it is good that we review the details: who, when, where. That reminds us that the resurrection of Christ is not a fairy tale or fable. It is a historical event… THE historical event. It is our privilege and pleasure to use the fifty days of Easter to discuss this fact: because he lives, not only is our eternity secure, but we have abundant resources to face the present.

WE CAN SEE THINGS CLEARLY   

A recent survey asked Americans which of the five senses they would least like to lose. 77% chose sight. Navigating life blind poses a plethora of challenges that the sighted do not face. This is why Scripture often uses the concept of blindness as a metaphor for how hard it is to navigate life without a correct understanding of Christ. Spiritual blindness can take many different forms. In some cases, it is hostile opposition to the message of Jesus. In others, spiritual blindness might be demonstrated in confusion about Jesus’ true identity. In still others, spiritual blindness might be the inability to understand our spiritual condition.

No matter the form spiritual blindness takes, Easter has the power to replace it with sight. Easter allows us to see where we sinners stand with a holy God. It enables us to see the path through life that is worth pursuing (as opposed to those that lead to a dead end). Spiritual sight gives us the ability to see who holds our future in his hands and who is worth our eternal worship. Because he lives, we can see things clearly.

God bless your worship.

Pastor Adam Mueller preaches on Acts 9:1-22; Midlife Crisis

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