One of my favorite illustrations is how the news the battle of Waterloo was communicated to England. The message was sent by rider, then by ship across the English Channel, and then from ship to shore. The message had only four words, but unfortunately the first two words were the only words communicated initially due to the heavy fog that descended rather suddenly. The only part of the message that got through was, “Wellington defeated.” That is all the tower of Winchester Cathedral saw and all the messenger could do was pass on the sad news. England lived in disappointment for 24 hours. As the fog lifted the whole message could be completed. The two missing words hidden from the fog were “the enemy.” The whole truth was “Wellington defeated the enemy!”
Between the crucifixion and the resurrection, the followers of Jesus lived with half a message. “Jesus defeated.” Then on resurrection morning the fog lifted and the confusion to make sense of life became clear. The missing words blazed in the hearts of the disciples, “Jesus defeated the enemy!” We who believe in Jesus are the resurrection people who will live forever with God because we are in Christ Jesus. Jesus bridges the gap between confusion of life and the purpose of life. God can take tragedy and turn it to victory. Amen!
Between the crucifixion and the resurrection, the followers of Jesus lived with half a message. “Jesus defeated.” Then on resurrection morning the fog lifted and the confusion to make sense of life became clear. The missing words blazed in the hearts of the disciples, “Jesus defeated the enemy!” We who believe in Jesus are the resurrection people who will live forever with God because we are in Christ Jesus. Jesus bridges the gap between confusion of life and the purpose of life. God can take tragedy and turn it to victory. Amen!
Clark Tatum
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