	Bob Hostetler > Devotions

Future Grace

by Bob Hostetler

If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men. But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead (1 Corinthians 15:19-20a).

During the second world war, one of London's finest churches planned a harvest celebration of thanksgiving in the midst of the savage Battle of Britain, in which Nazi forces mercilessly bombed England's largest cities. In preparation for the service, the church gathered a bounty of food on the altar. At the center of the offerings was a single sheaf of corn.

The service was never held.

The night before the planned celebration, an air raid destroyed the church, leaving only a pile of rubble in its wake.

Spring came, and as the weather warmed, a brave shoot of green stretched toward the sky amid the ruins of the church. When autumn arrived, a flourishing patch of corn grew, asserting its victory over death and destruction.

The resurrection of Jesus reminds us that, no matter how dark the night may be, no matter how overcast the skies, no matter how bad things may get, life is stronger than death. The Risen Christ is the firstfruits of all who will someday be raised to share in his triumph and glory. Whether we die before Jesus returns, or are alive to greet his coming, we will all be raised to a new and glorious life with him.

Prayer: No matter how overcast the sky may be, remind me, Lord, to hopefully await that moment when the Son will part the clouds for me.

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