Yesterday morning as the sun rose many folk across the world were on their way to their local church fellowship to celebrate the most life changing event in history – the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

This was the day that death was challenged and conquered. No, I don’t mean that you and I will not die, but I DO mean that death no longer has a sting – for those who believe (2 Corinthians 5:8).

What this also means is that we can be certain that there IS a life after death. Someone recently said that death is simply like changing into new clothes that are more appropriate for the higher realm of life we will step into. The apostle Paul expressed it as “absent from the body, present with the Lord”. 2 Corinthians 5:8.

Death is no longer to be feared for those who believe in Jesus Christ (Romans 10:9), but rather it can be met with faith and hope. The sting has gone.

Someone also said that it is not until you can face death that you really begin to live. I believe that is true.

I know that in my own life there were a couple of times when it seemed like my time on this earth was about to finish. I am very grateful to the Lord for the many times He stepped in and stopped the enemy’s attacks.

Here is my story in brief:
I was just twelve when glandular fever attacked my body and left me with too many white blood cells which caused a lot of concern.

When I first sensed that the direction of my life was leading towards Latin America, it seemed impossible. My health was still not good enough for such a strenuous undertaking as setting out to the mission field. There were still reoccurring health problems. But I made the decision to follow my heart – somehow.

The following declaration was so real I had it printed on my first contact card:

Across the years on the mission field reoccurring weakness often tried to hinder my progress. But my focus was on my life’s passion, goals and vision and I would not give in, I could not.

Then in September 2005 I drove back to the US border from Cuernavaca, Mexico – a 760 mile trip I have made many dozens of times across the years. This time I was driving a Chrysler Sebring, a car I would never drive again. I am positive the steering was faulty as it went out of control way too easily. It rolled twice and my world changed in a split second.

Once again, God stepped in. The accident was written up in the Mexican papers as a miracle. I am positive it was. I am here!

The message of the resurrection is real. God made us alive together with Christ (Ephesians 2:5). This is the abundant life that Jesus spoke of in John 10:10.

How can you and I repay the LORD for all the good that he has done for us? By accepting His abundant life and living in it! (Psalm 116:12,13).

Are you walking in the benefits He purchased for you through the cross and the resurrection?