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Reflection of the Cross

Reflection of the Cross

Last updated on: May 18, 2023 at 1:34 pm by Dr. Andy McDaniel

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Reflection of the Cross 2023-05-18T13:34:55-04:00 Dr. Andy McDaniel

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THE RESURRECTION

Reflection: we see the definition has a two-fold meaning. First, it is “the throwing back by a body or surface of light, heat, or sound without absorbing it.” Second, we see it means “serious thought or consideration.”

Let’s consider the second part of this definition for a moment. Believers worldwide will soon celebrate Easter or what I like to call Resurrection Day. There are so many types of celebrations around this event. We see some that are reverent while others are somber. While yet others have nothing to do with Jesus but are more about spring, eggs, candies, and bunnies.

WHY?

So, why do we celebrate? What should be our reflection? It is about new life. We no longer suffer from the grips of the bondage of sin. There is now victory over death. We have real hope and know that what we face now is nothing when compared to the glory that awaits us. The division over names, types of celebrations, and who is right or wrong are distractions from the meaning of the impact this moment/event should have on our lives.

We must not lose sight of the fact that the enemy does not want us to be free. Bondage, trapped, enslavement, oppressed, and depressed are his favorite words. He loves seeing misery. He relishes the horror show going on in the world right now. However, let us not forget; let us not allow distraction to take our eyes off the joy given through the angel’s announcement at the tomb:

HE IS NOT HERE!

HE IS RISEN!

THE PROMISE KEPT

Those two announcements are beyond exciting; however, the next part causes my reflection. The angel proclaims, “As He said.” In other words, everyone had the opportunity to hear this would happen because Jesus told it in advance. Unfortunately, much like many messages we “hear” today, many do not listen to what is actually said.

As with everything God says and does, He remains consistent in that He does not change. In other words, if Christ “is risen, ” He remains that way. So, friends, remember we serve a RISEN Savior. God’s not dead. He is very much alive and has not lost the ability to take care of business.

The ways of the world help us grow weary. It is taxing at times, and honestly, it is easy to consider giving up. However, remember why we celebrate Easter Sunday, in fact, every day. It is because God loves us. His love for us goes to a level we cannot comprehend. This love is so deep that Jesus stepped from the Glory of Heaven onto this Earth and GAVE His life on our behalf so that we join Him one day in the realms of glory for Eternity. Nothing took His life. He gave it, and as the old song states, “If that isn’t love, then the ocean is dry.”

THE CHALLENGE

Life in this modern age is challenging if we allow it to be. But, unfortunately, what I find most often to be the cause is a weak foundation. In other words, if we attempt to build anything on the sand, it only stands for a short time. So on that morning, when Jesus arose from the grave when He walked past the stone that once sealed the door when He defeated death, He provided us the most solid foundation to build our life on, one that cannot fail.

So, what is your reflection? I pray that you find comfort in these words; “HE IS RISEN AS HE SAID.” He always keeps His promise. He will never fail you. Regardless of the world’s uncertainty today, we serve a Risen Savior; let that be the ROCK you stand on and allow you to trust that you are loved and watched over.

COMFORT

Our best days are ahead of us; keep moving forward as the invitation from Christ says, “Follow Me.” We can trust that, without a doubt, He knows where He is going and desires that we all join Him.

Blessings,

Pastor Andy

You can follow my daily video teaching series on my Youtube channel.

You can catch up on all my articles and thoughts on my page.

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About Dr. Andy McDaniel

Dr. Andy McDaniel has served in ministry now for over twenty years. He serves as Sr. Pastor of West Fayetteville Baptist Church in Fayetteville, North Carolina. Pastor Andy and his wife Melissa have three daughters and two grandsons. His passion for those who have yet to meet Christ is deep. In addition to teaching and preaching, he loves to write and produces a daily video lesson called "Making it Simple." You can read more about the author here.

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