The contrasting elements of quality versus the inexpensive has become part of our American culture. Paper plates and disposal cups are common among us. Things readily accessible have taken center-stage while patiently waiting on the better, longer lasting item is rejected. The drama of this life has been rewritten to include fleeting pleasures and quick fixes. Hollywood tells us that problems are resolved within a two hour window while television programs take less time, but the truth is that things of value take time and sacrifice. The things which are the most precious and have the greatest worth entails a cost of substance.
The Cross; His death, burial, and resurrection, is of the greatest substance because it cost the most. Our sins were carried there; Our debt was paid for there; His life became the ransom for ours there. It took Him time and it cost Him everything. He died and then He rose again. He gave up all so that He could gain all. It was a position of pain and sorrow followed by an empty tomb and the birth of His Church. His story cries out this truth that nothing of value comes without giving up something of substance. One writer said it like this:
There’s not a victory without a fight.
There’s not a sunrise without a night.
There’s not a purchase without a cost.
There’s not a Crown without a Cross.
He died, but he rose again. He was buried, but the grave could not keep Him. Jesus was crucified, but He conquered death. His sacrifice paid the price, and His resurrection gave us life.
Pastor Jeffrey Harpole