Jesus Conquered it!

The ability to conquer is one of the most rewarding things in the world. People train mentally, physically and sometimes spiritually for months trying to reach their ultimate goal--the ability to say "I have conquered my foe." The object of this driving passion varies depending upon the person. One may be a golfer whose greatest desire is to win a "Masters." To another it might be an actor searching for the "Oscar" or a singer looking to become number one on the musical chart. Whatever the case, the goal remains the same. However, there is a universal desire common to every class and creed that man reaches for; the ability to conquer death. We exercise, eat right, take herbs, medicines, and pray in order to beat the grave. Yet, success has eluded us. That's what makes the resurrection such a powerful feat. Jesus did what no one else had done. He conquered the grave. Throughout history death had captured and held its victims hostage regardless of their plea. This all changed on the third day when Jesus arose. Not only did he come forth from the tomb, but he led hundreds of others out with him who had been held in bondage. When the sun came up on that glorious morn, death had been embarrassed and the grave emptied. While confused and stung from the blow this enemy of our soul found itself looking into the face of our King who declared, "I am he that lives and was dead and am alive forever more, and have the keys, of hell and of death." In other words Jesus said, "I conquered it." Even greater still is the fact that God allows us to share in the spoils of the victory. He did not choose to wear the crown alone. Which means, because he did we can. In him we have the ability to conquer it--death.