February 24’s devotional.
We live, as he said, “between the cross and the cloud.” The disciples had seen Jesus crucified. Their hopes seemed buried with Him. Yet Acts 1:3 declares, “After he had suffered, he also presented himself alive to them by many convincing proofs, appearing to them over a period of forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God.” This is not religious sentiment. This is historical reality. Luke records evidence. Eyewitnesses testify. The risen Christ stands at the centre of our faith.
Barry reminded us that Luke, a careful doctor and historian, did his research. Christianity does not rest on myth or private experience. It rests on an empty tomb and a living Lord. He said, “That’s the great distinction between Christianity and any other religion… their leaders are in the grave… but praise God, Jesus is alive and he rose from the dead.” The resurrection separates the gospel from every competing claim. Our Saviour is not remembered. He reigns.
Thomas doubted. He demanded proof. And Jesus met him. “Come, Thomas, feel. See, I am alive. I am real.” The resurrection was bodily. Jesus ate. Jesus spoke. Jesus bore scars. He was not a spirit or an idea. He was the crucified and risen Lord. And Jesus said, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe” (John 20:29). Faith is not blind. It trusts credible testimony. It rests on divine revelation. It stands on a risen Christ.
Barry called the resurrection “like a lighthouse to our faith… the most significant fact of history.” When storms rise and doubts whisper, the resurrection steadies us. Because He lives, our sins are forgiven. Because He lives, death has lost its sting. Because He lives, we too will be raised. The same power that raised Christ will raise His people. We do not drift through life hoping for the best. We anchor our souls in a living Redeemer.
Lord Jesus, strengthen my confidence in Your resurrection. Guard me from casual unbelief and quiet doubt. Fix my eyes on the empty tomb and the risen King. Help me live today as one who serves a living Saviour—bold in witness, steady in trial, hopeful in death. Let the certainty of Your resurrection shape my choices, calm my fears, and anchor my hope. Amen.