Death can sting in many ways. First, death can sting by casting a shadow over every moment of life. No matter what earthly joy you are experiencing, death guarantees it won’t last. Second, death can sting by separating loved ones. There are no phone calls or hugs from the dead. Third, death can sting by instilling fear of what follows. Deep down, every human being senses that after death there is some sort of reckoning… a judgement. Yes, death can sting in many ways.

Note that word can. Because he lives, death has lost its sting for those who put their faith in the living Lord. Because Christ lives, we have all the proof we need that God accepted Jesus’ death as the complete and final payment for all our sin. Those who are in Christ need not fear God's judgment.. There is no condemnation for those who are in Christ. More, Christ’s resurrection is the assurance that our Christian loved ones are not lost. We will see them again in the resurrection. For, Christ’s resurrection means we will rise to a world of incomprehensible and unending joy.

Death remains unnatural. But Christ has defeated death. So, while death may still cause tears, death does not cause dread. Because he lives, death has lost its sting. Celebrate Jesus' resurrection this Sunday at Trinity's Easter festival services offered at 8:00am and 10:30am. A free community breakfast will be served in the Fellowship Hall from 9-10:15am.