"I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades." Revelation 1:18
Perhaps one of the most iconic running scenes ever filmed was that of Rocky Balboa running through the streets of Philadelphia clad in converse and and a cotton sweat suit. I mean who can forget the scene of the boxer followed by a crowd of fans making his way up the 72 stone steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art? And that theme song just makes us love it even more doesn't it? That's why it was nice that CSN reported last week that the actor was "very much alive" after a hoax reporting his so-called death went viral.
You know there is someone else who is very much alive despite reports to the contrary-Jesus, the one who is, who was and is to come. Jesus himself reminded us that he is "very much alive" when he said, "I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever!" And not only is Jesus alive for all time but, by his death and resurrection, he conquered sin and death for all time. And that means, as followers, you and I no longer have to fear hell or the grave because Christ holds the keys to both! And thankfully, since Jesus promised it, this is one report that can never be labeled a hoax.
Appropriately enough, a statue of Rocky was commissioned in 1980 and set adjacent to the famous steps to "signify that anything is possible, so long as you keep persevering. It signifies personal victory." And victory is the exact thing Jesus promises is possible to those who persevere and hold tight to the faith. Pretty amazing isn't it?
Heavenly Father, thank you for sending your son Jesus to be the ultimate sacrifice that, through him, we could have victory over sin and death. It's astonishing to think that we will one day be running into your arms. Help us Lord to be bold and share this news of the greatest victory ever recorded with all those we know. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.
Happy Running!!!
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