We give gifts to loved ones as we see the wise men giving gifts to Jesus, because they recognized Him as a special person sent from God. Immanuel, God with us, what a great time! But Christmas is only the beginning of Jesus’ Mission.

Like a salesman gets excited when he gets his foot in the door of a new prospect, so are we excited at the birth of Jesus. But we all know that the salesman’s work is just beginning at that first sales call. His mission is not complete until he sells his product and the customer pays for it. So, Jesus’ Mission was not complete until His death on the cross and resurrection from the dead- EASTER!

Easter is my favorite holiday because of the eternal ramifications of the weekend. Starting with the Last Supper on Thursday night, which is the Passover Meal that the Israelites celebrated year after year in remembrance of God’s delivering power over their slavery in Egypt. In the same way God gives us deliverance from our slavery to sin. Next is the rest of the night and the morning of Good Friday when Jesus was falsely accused and stands before Pilate, who condemns Jesus to death after He is severely beaten. Then there is Good Friday  the time of the crucifixion. The Bible speaks of three hours of darkness while Jesus is dying on the cross from noon until three o’clock. Then He says “IT IS FINISHED” and “ Father into Your hands I commit my Spirit”, and He breathed His last breath.

I do much introspection and inner reflection during this time as I envision the perfect man, who is God Himself dying for my sins on the cross. He took the penalty and punishment of my sins upon Himself, so that I might live. As John the Baptist says about Jesus ”Behold the Lamb of God , Who takes away the sin of the world.” It is very hard for me to comprehend the Love of God, as demonstrated through Jesus. No greater love can one show, than to lay down his life for his friend. That is what Jesus did for us.

Hallelujah, Jesus is risen. He has risen indeed! The proof is in the pudding. With the resurrection of Jesus in bodily form on Easter Sunday, we have confidence that He succeeded with His Mission of redeeming us lost sinners. Since He has risen, we too will rise in glory with Him to eternal life. May God bless you with saving faith this Easter and remember MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!