In the week before Christ died, things happened so quickly that the disciples could hardly keep up with them! Jesus brought Lazarus back to life and the next day rode triumphantly into the city of Jerusalem, hailed by the people as their glorious Messiah. There were even Greeks who came seeking Him.Christ’s fame was known throughout the region and things were looking good.
At the time the disciples had to be exciting about what was happening and the future they they would have as the inner circle followers of Christ. Yet there were several times where Jesus would speak to them about leaving and going to His Father. The disciples didn’t really understand the situation as it was, but they did believe that He was the Messiah who had been sent from God.
Those exciting and happy days didn’t last much longer as things transitioned quickly to being hated. He went from praised as a hero to being treated as a criminal.
Surely they despaired as they saw His lifeless body taken from the cross and prepared for burial. Gone was their Beloved, and gone were their hopes and dreams, their courage and confidence, their status and security. Yet He had promised that because He lived, they would live also. How could that be when He lay cold and still in the grave?
The disciples’ sorrow wouldn’t last long though as just a few days later Christ would rise from the dead. As He did so He fulfilled prophecy and lived up to the statements that He had previously made.
Jesus still lives today and He promises that we will have victory! There are times when I don’t understand why things are happening a certain way, but I remember that He is the Christ who was sent by His Father.
In those difficult times, I trust Him to be my guide. When I am afraid and worried I can rest knowing that He is in control and that He cares for me. Because of Him, victory is mine.
Father, help me to never forget that victory is just around the corner and show me how to find hope in You.
Dr. Ann Shorb is a counselor, author and speaker. Through CCES she provides many different services for couples, families and individuals including Christian marriage counseling and premarital counseling.
