“Jesus himself likewise partook of the same nature, that through death he might destroy him who has the power of death, that is, the devil, and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong bondage. . . . . . . . . . . . For because he himself has suffered and been tempted, he is able to help those who are tempted.”
Excerpt, First Reading, Wednesday 15th January 2025 – HEBREWS 2:14-18.
So, by the death and resurrection of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, he has conquered death and the devil forever.
As a ransomed soul, one would only continue fearing death only if or when we have compromised our ways.
Else, death to us, is a victorious transition into eternal glory.
All things being equal, when one buys a British Airways ticket to fly business class to London, once they have boarded, they can easily recline their seat into a comfortable bed and drift away into a sweet sleep with the assurance that when next they open their eyes would be at the point of landing at the London Heathrow Airport.
That, too, ordinarily should be our assurance at our time and point of death. A seamless transition.
However, to be assured of such a safe and seamless passage, we must decide to henceforth make this, very practical,” Work out your salvation with fear and trembling” – PHILIPPIANS 2:12.
Nevertheless, while we are at this, we are bound to be tempted.
Everyone can be tempted, even Christ Himself was tempted. There is really nothing wrong in being tempted.
Though, as ransomed souls, it is not that one goes shopping around or snooping into issues and wanting to be tempted.
Nonetheless, temptations happen to strengthen our resolve and sharpen our faith as a people bound for the Kingdom.
What is wrong is when we yield to and fall to that temptation.
My dear friend, walk with Christ Jesus 24/7/52. Hence when we encounter any temptation, we would be already with him and he in us. Then victory must be certain as God has promised to always fight our battles when we call on Him.
Have a fantastic day folks.
#Blessed_Carlo_Acutis! #Pray_for_us!
-Akase F. Agabo.
15th January 2025.