Spring: New life, because Jesus lives! - 8 August 2025
Ewald Schmidt
But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead also comes through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive. 1 Corinthians 15:20–22, NIV
The darkest winter in any person’s life would be to die without Jesus – to miss out on his salvation. Death is the greatest stumbling block on our life’s journey; that’s why Paul rightly calls it “the last enemy” (1 Corinthians 15:26).
But Jesus brings life! The most life-changing truth we can ever discover is this: Jesus rose from the dead, and that changes everything! It transforms not only the present, but all eternity. Without him, the seasons of our lives would end in death – a final, hopeless conclusion. Every grain of sand slipping through the hourglass would only serve as a reminder of how time inevitably runs out.
But Jesus lives! He conquered the grave. Paul calls him the firstfruits of those who have died – the first of many who will rise. Through Adam, sin and death entered the world, but God’s grace and love are far greater. He sent his Son to die in our place, so that by faith we might be united with him. Jesus declares in John 14:6, “I am the way and the truth and the life.”
What a comfort: death is no longer the end, but the doorway to God’s eternal dwelling. Eternal life is God’s gift of grace to all who believe in Jesus. We, however, don’t have to wait until after the grave to experience this life. Jesus brings us a new season of life right now; it is spring in our souls!
In John 10:10, Jesus promises: “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” When we come to know him, we receive the Holy Spirit. And the Spirit brings forth fruit in our lives, fruit that not only transforms us, but touches the lives of those around us: “Love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22–23)
When these fruits become visible in our lives, a spiritual spring emerges. Then our lives carry meaning, not just someday, but here and now. And with that meaningful life comes a solid hope: that God’s love will never cease, not even in death. Because we know: death is not the end, but the beginning of eternal life with Jesus.
That’s why we live with hope!
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you that you died on the cross for me, that you paid the price for all I have done wrong. Thank you for conquering death and opening the door to my Father’s eternal home. Help me to live fully for you today, and to radiate your love to everyone around me. Amen.