This Psalm is a fitting conclusion for our Lenten journey. Over the past six weeks we have found our way toward the cross along pathways of confession, repentance, mercy, and grace. At every turn we have been reminded of the greatness of God, while confronted by the weakness of our sin. This kind of journey is wearying, for to witness God's great love in the pages of scripture, and then attempt to follow the pattern of love through Jesus Christ by taking up the cross daily, is a challenge that hymn writer Issac Watts wrote, "demands my life, my soul, my all." The pain and shock of Good Friday has given way to the fear and uncertainty of Saturday. But as this morning dawns, there is something different...the heaviness of death and disappointment have given way to the release of resurrection. The words of Jesus ring in our ears once more..."Whoever believes in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live, and the one who lives and believes in me shall never die."
"Praise the Lord," the Psalmist writes. "Let everything that has breath, praise the Lord." Friends, the journey doesn't end here, but begins anew, for our lives are to be an offering of praise to the One who has overcome sin and death. The empty tomb is cause for celebration, not just on Easter Sunday, but every day, for God lives and works in us through the resurrected Christ. Every breath...every step...every word is to praise the living Lord.
Let everything that has breath, praise the Lord! Amen.
Jim Abernathy
Friends, today marks the end of our Lenten journey together. Thank you for letting me travel this road with you! The walk of faith continues as the risen Christ goes before us.)
JKA
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