An Easter Meditation
John 12:24 “I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone. But its death will produce many new kernels – a plentiful harvest of new lives.”
The greatest impact of Jesus’ life is the fact that he laid down his life. He gave up his life to save the world. Had Jesus not died on the cross, his impact would still have been great – but not nearly as great as what it is now. If Jesus had not died on the cross, he would have been counted as a prophet like Elijah. We would have listened to him, but not worshipped him. Had Jesus not laid down his life, he would have been counted as a good person who helped the poor – like Mother Teresa. We would have admired him, but not followed him. Had Jesus not suffered and died, he would have been counted as a miracle worker – like Peter or Paul. We would have sought his help but not his salvation.
But Jesus did more than prophesy. He did more than help the poor and heal the sick. He was more than a prophet, more than a good man, more than a teacher. He is the Savior of the whole world for one reason and one reason alone – he laid down his life. His greatest impact came from dying and rising again.
But the impact of that one act changed the course of history. From one seed falling in the ground and dying, a whole harvest is born. From one solitary life laid down for man, an innumerable multitude is saved.
And so it is for all of us. The greatest impact you will ever make is when you lay your life on the altar and surrender to God. When you give up control of your life, you suddenly move into a new realm of spiritual power and authority. When you lay down your life for Christ, you move to a new level of influence. Deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow Jesus – and reap with him a plentiful harvest of new lives.
May you experience the purpose, the power, and the promise of Jesus’ death and resurrection this Easter season!