Jesus was doing some amazing stuff. He healed a blind man in Bethsaida. He was transfigured in front of the disciples, allowing his divine glory to shine through for a few brief moments. He healed a boy who had been possessed with an evil spirit ever since he was a small child.

And those are just a few of the highlights.

But Jesus was also saying some disconcerting things to the disciples. He told them that though he was the Son of God, he would suffer, be rejected by the religious leaders, and be killed.

In fact, Jesus didn't just say this once. He emphasized again and again that it would occur. And each time, the disciples weren't happy. Jesus' words wounded and confused them.

But he always tried to reassure them. These bad things would occur. But they would not be final. Not final at all. Three days after his death he would rise from his grave. Not even death would be able to hold him.

The Bible tells us that the resurrection of Jesus Christ is the most important event in the history of the world. The implications are staggering. If one person can defeat death, then certainly others will too.

And that's why Jesus wants us to know. He rose. And all those who trust in him as "the resurrection and the life" will one day rise too. Not even death was able to hold Jesus. And it will not be able to hold us either!

"He said to them, 'The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men. They will kill him, and after three days he will rise'" (‭Mark‬ ‭9‬:‭31‬, NIV).

Our Bible reading for Thursday, February 26, is Exodus 39:1 - 40:38, Mark 9:2-32, and Psalm 26:1-12.

Lord Jesus, thank you for winning the victory over death. Help me believe in you as the resurrection and the life. As the man whose son was healed from demon possession prayed, so I also pray: "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!"

Header image based on "Garden Tomb Jerusalem" by Holt, CC By-SA 2.0