EASTER! The completion of God’s plan

from theDesk of…

by Philip Swyers, Commissioner =

For the Christian, Easter is the most wonderful time of the year. God’s plan has been completed and has made perfect the truth in his word and in the life of his people.

Paul said to Timothy, “Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead.”

These were his parting words and the last he is known to have penned. Jesus was waiting at the door of eternity. Paul was “ready to be offered,” his fight was finished, his race won, there was no fear in his heart. He had kept the faith and now he was coming to his finest hour—a conqueror for all of us.

Christianity is now confronting its greatest, and perhaps its final test. It will rise or fall on one main issue—whether it is possible for man to have within him the very life of Christ himself.

Through the years we have had many people who have made a difference in our lives. These differences may vary depending on the era. I still remember my college money and banking professor whose teaching was so interesting I could hardly wait until his next lecture. For the past 42 years, my wife, Pat, has made a huge difference in how I think and make decisions. She has been good for me.

Along the way, God has placed many outstanding officers and soldiers in my life who have taught me much about holy living and being Christ-like. I am sure that you, too, have been blessed with examples of those who model Christ in their day-to-day living.

At this Easter time, I remember the final days of my father’s life. He was a good man who lived a godly life and modeled holiness. Knowing the end was near, he looked at me and said, “I’ll meet you at the gate.”

Perhaps Paul’s words were in his head and in his heart. I really don’t know, but I do know that, because of Easter, Christ lives and so does my dad. Someday, we’ll meet at the gate!
Major Lillian Hansen wrote: