In today’s essay the fiery Christoph Blumhardt reminds us of the inseparable link between the reality of the Resurrection and living in Christ. For Blumhardt it is not enough for one to say “ I believe” in reference to the resurrection if that is not accompanied by a vigorous living for Christ in Kingdom activity. Here Blumhard makes a passionate statement that hits to the heart of the New Testament idea that the death and resurrection of Christ must be in us:
It is not the worst if some people are unable to believe that Christ rose from the dead-at least they still regard it as something tremendous, too to tremendous to glibly confess. The sad thing is that so many people today claim to believe it, and yet it means so little to them. It has no effect on their lives.
We tend to focus on perspective and that is helpful sometimes. But we should never loose our focus on purpose. It’s important to look at life from different vantage points but we must never forget that Jesus came to die and live and our lives are no different. We experience the death in and of this world but nevertheless we live because and for Him. Again Blumhardt, “We are simply to ask Jesus to give us more and more of his resurrection, until it runs over, until the extraordinary powers form on high that are within our reach can get down to work on all that we do.” Part of the “running over” is that the alive Jesus alive in us calls to bring life to others in ministry. 2 Timothy 2:2 says, “ And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.” The idea is that as the reality of the resurrection should pour out of our lives into the lives of others as God gives us opportunity. Live today.