It’s time to rise up, ya’ll! 

Fun fact:  Children actually grow faster in the spring than any other season in the year.  It’s a season of new life.  It’s a season of new beginnings.  It’s a season when we celebrate our risen Savior Jesus Christ. It’s a time to celebrate how God brings life from death.  As you know, Lazarus was in the grave four days before his friend Jesus came to see him. He spoke specifically to Lazarus to come fourth out of the grave.  And Lazarus, whose body was beginning to stink came out like a fresh order of fries. This story is not just a story.  People, it really happened!  It’s a constant reminder that God brings life from death.

Maybe you are experiencing death in your family relationships, your marriage, your work life, or even in church life.  Do not be discouraged.  God can bring all of those to new life.  When you see a dogwood bloom in East Tennessee, you see the gospel of Jesus Christ in every bloom.  The bloom itself is in the shape of the cross.  The bud and the bloom seem to come out of nowhere.  But every year it reminds us of God’s grace. 

God’s perfect sacrifice, Jesus, came out of his grave after three days. And by that, He proved everything He said was true.  Jesus said in John 14:6, “I am the way and the truth and the life.  No man comes to the Father but by Me.” John also recorded that Jesus declared himself to be the resurrection and the life.  Are you ready to celebrate yet?  I know I am a Baptist, but this news really makes me want to dance. And so, this Spring, as all the vegetation in East Tennessee wakes up.  Take your allergy medicine, sneeze and rejoice.  God’s just reminding you that he is still in the life business. John 10:10, The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life and have it to the full.

Rise up, ya’ll!

Bob Bell