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"I am the Living One; I was dead, and behold I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades" (Rev. 1:18 NIV)
On Thursday, Sept. 20, 2001, United States President George W. Bush spoke to the Congress and the American people. He outlined the tragic event of the previous 10 days and his response.
In the midst of his speech, President Bush recognized the heroic actions of a man on a United Airlines flight that crashed in Pennsylvania. Todd Beamer was one of a handful of men who overpowered the hijackers and caused the plane to crash rather than be used as a bomb to possibly kill hundreds and possibly thousands of innocent people. The President then recognized Beamer's widow who was present.
Lisa Beamer was later interviewed on the "Larry King" program. King asked Ms. Beamer about the source of her strength during these trying times. She told him of her husband's faith and her personal faith in Christ. She stated that she was sure she would one day see her husband again. She knew that he was in heaven and that one day she would also be in heaven because of her faith in Jesus.
I'm sure many people had a difficult time understanding her inner strength that comes from faith in Christ and also her assurance that one day she would be in heaven. But anyone with a personal relationship with Christ and who reads the Bible also knows the Source of Lisa Beamer's strength, because Jesus is the "Living One."
Death has no hold on the true follower of Christ. It has lost its grip on the Christian. The Bible says that Jesus conquered death. He came face to face with death, and he defeated this great enemy of man. This is the great hope of those who place their faith in Christ. He's the victorious One. He's the "Living One." He's the One who was dead but is now alive.
I've stood at the tomb of many of the great political leaders of the world. I viewed the ancient tombs of religious leaders. They've often been well preserved in order to honor their leadership and contribution to history. But there's one tomb that's empty. The body is no longer there. It's the tomb of Jesus. He's alive and lives forever more. And all who trust in Him find eternal life.
That's why Lisa Beamer could make such bold comments. That's the Source of her strength. She knows the One who holds the "keys of death and Hades." His name is Jesus. His name is "the Living One." If you don't have the assurance that if you were to die you would go to heaven, then you need to place your faith in the "Living One." Call upon His name - Jesus. He will save you and forgive you. Right now, ask Him into your heart. He will change your life and give you the assurance of eternal life.
If you've prayed and invited Jesus to come into your heart and change your life today, please e-mail us at
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and let us know. We'll be praying for you. God bless you.
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