Jesus Christ says, “I am the First and the Last. I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades.”
(cf. Rev.1:17-18 NIV)

What tremendous words from the lips of our risen Lord! He is risen indeed and is seated forever at the right hand of God the Father. Jesus – the First and the Last!

How different things looked, though, during His life on earth! Jesus certainly didn’t appear to be the victor, triumphant over all the powers of the enemy. His earthly path was marked by suffering and temptation. He had to face opposition, persecution and an excruciating death by crucifixion.

But Jesus’ death on the cross did not mean that Satan won. Calvary became, is now, and always will be the place of God’s victory, where Eternal Love triumphed over sin, death and hell.

We have a glorious hope,
a hope that cannot die:
Amidst defeat Christ’s kingdom
in triumph will arise.
Lord, You are Life eternal,
and that life cannot end.
Despite the devil’s raging,
it never can be quenched.

M. Basilea Schlink

from: http://www.kanaan.org/en/kanaan-message-for-today-04-10/

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SI Moderator - Greg Gordon