“The Lord Jesus Christ Reigns; Therefore Rejoice!”

“The Lord Jesus Christ Reigns; Therefore Rejoice!”
These days I hardly have a phone conversation with a concerned friend who would not at one point say, “With the numerous funeral services and burials, please Rev. take care! COVID-19 is real. This time around it is very deadly and strikes without warning.” Of course, we all try to be careful, but we can only stay alive as long as God permits.
The mere fact of our mortality has put the scare of death in us. All religions have a theology of what happens after death, but only Christianity convincingly demonstrates that the dead will arise. Christian faith rests on the premise that “Jesus Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep…”
The question may be asked, “Why is it that when Christians die they too are not immediately raised to life as was Christ?” “In Christ all will be made alive. But each in his own turn; Christ, the firstfruits, then, when he comes, those who belong to him. Then the end will come, when he hands over the kingdom to God the Father after he has destroyed all dominion, authority and power. For he must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet. “The last enemy to be destroyed is death…” (I Cor.15:20-29).
For now let us kick away from our midst this scare of death! Each funeral you attend, each dead announcement you hear is a reminder that tomorrow it may be you! Be vigilant, be alert and stay awake! Therefore my friend, hunger and thirst for the things of God so that when he calls, you will continue life in eternity.
Prayer: Lord Jesus Christ, I rejoice that you are alive. Hold my hand through the dark maze of this world for a closer walk with you. Amen!
Have a blessed day! Peace be with you!