"Hope Delayed"

"When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: 'Death has been swallowed up in victory'. 'Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?' The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ" ~ 1 Corinthians 15:54-57

What does Easter represent to you? Millions of Americans will celebrate the holiday with friends, family, and food, but still pay no attention to how the reality of the empty tomb fundamentally changes everything. Family and friends are a great blessing, but they cannot provide a single victory. Those of us who believe what God has done and follow and trust Jesus as Lord know that His resurrection is the foundation for our faith. Some look to the cross, but without the empty tomb, the cross is just a monument to torture and brutality. But the empty tomb means that victory is guaranteed even when loss seems inevitable. Are you fighting what seems like a losing battle against sin, disease, persecution, and pain? Don't give up, for the resurrection proved that "Hope Delayed" does not mean hope is lost. This week at Friendship, we'll continue in Romans 8 and consider what the resurrection of Jesus Christ means for us even as we face suffering. We are more than conquerors. If you struggle to believe that, look upon the empty tomb and see for yourself that He is not there; He is risen, just as He said. Join us and be encouraged by how He is transforming your life!