Could it be that within the death and resurrection of Christ, was one final parable being left behind for His people to discover? Jesus often used Earthly stories to teach Heaven’s wisdom. He said, “Unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.” (John 12:24 NIV) This Earthly depiction of the lifecycle of wheat was meant to explain God’s purpose for Christ’s death – that by dying, Jesus would indeed bring us all from death to life. But that is not the end of the parable, for the life of Jesus tells a story of its own – one of Earth and one of Heaven.

So great is the story of Jesus that all the books of this world could not contain it; however, we know that He was buried in sorrow and rose in joy. It is the glory of God to raise up those who are brought low. Christ revealed to us that we all would share in both His sufferings and glory. The sorrows of Jesus were many and great, but His joy is everlasting. He who died, now, lives. There was pain in the night, but joy did come.

The life of Jesus is a story within a story of a man who suffered, died, and now, lives. We who drink from His cup His blood, and eat from His table His flesh, do share the same meal. Therefore, God is glorified; because though we lie down in sorrow, we shall rise in even greater joy. Do not distress but celebrate, for your present sufferings are a sign of what is to come. Praise, honor, and glory to God!

Prayer:

Bless You Heavenly Creator,

For though we weep, soon shall we laugh. Though we are heavily burdened, soon we shall lift our hands with Heavenly praise. And though we are buried under the weight of loss, disappointment, and adversity, we shall yet rise. For Your sorrows are our sorrows and Your joy is our joy. Let the sounds of Your praises, the song of Your victory, bless and be blessed. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

Great news! Jonathon McClellan’s new books, Messages of Hope (for adults) and The Ant’s Palace (for kids) is currently available! You can order them from most bookstores, online retailers, or request them from your local library. Rediscover how to hope again and teach your children what true riches are!