THE BARNABAS STRATEGY: The other side of Easter (a footnote)

I have noticed that the day before Easter (Saturday in Holy Week) can be tough, even symbolic of our struggles as believers. This side of Easter has always been a hard place to be. The disciples fled when Jesus was arrested (see Mat 26:56) and went into hiding. The crucified Jesus is dead and placed in a tomb. On this side of Easter all hope seems lost.

Brothers, don’t get trapped on this side of Easter! There will be times when life punches us in the gut, and we forget who we are and where we live. That is understandable. However, it is not acceptable to stay on this side of Easter where evil prematurely celebrates and chaos seems to reign; this is the deception and the lie. Remember:

Sing praises to the LORD, O you his saints,
and give thanks to his holy name.
For his anger is but for a moment,
and his favor is for a lifetime.
Weeping may tarry for the night,
but joy comes with the morning.
(Psa 30:4-5)

Whatever struggles you face, push through… persevere… Never loose sight of the other side of Easter! Do you not know? Have you not heard? The joy and hope of Easter comes in the morning. As the sons of God, the other side of Easter holds our inheritance. On the other side of Easter, the Cross and the tomb are empty, and Jesus reigns forever:

There’s a day that’s drawing near
When this darkness breaks to light
And the shadows disappear
And my faith shall be my eyes

Jesus has overcome
And the grave is overwhelmed
The victory is won
He is risen from the dead

[Chorus:]
And I will rise when He calls my name
No more sorrow, no more pain
I will rise on eagles’ wings
Before my God fall on my knees
And rise
I will rise. (I Will Rise, Chris Tomlin)

The Barnabas Strategy is an initiative of the Holy Spirit free of institutional constraints. … Ron Bellomy

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