Imagine a city, besieged. The enemy has totally surrounded the city. Nothing gets in or out. Within the walls of the city, supplies begin to run low. Morale is lower. Citizens are fearful and despondent.
Imagine what would happen if a spy broke into that city one night with good news, to explain that the leaders of the enemy surrounding them had been defeated, that surrender was eminent, if they could only last a few more days.
Can you imagine the difference that would make in the lives of the citizens of that city? Depression gives way to joy. Despair gives way to hope.
In many ways, this story is the story of Christian life. We are surrounded by forces of evil. It often seems like wrong is destined to win the day, but things are not as they seem. Jesus brings us the good news that he has destroyed death and taken away the sting of the grave. So even though for a moment we are surrounded by the enemy, his power is meaningless and our hope is sure. All we have to do is hang in there for a few more days…
Jesus said, “Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.” (Revelation 2:10). “Christ is faithful over God’s house as a son. And we are his house if indeed we hold fast our confidence and our boasting in our hope!” (Hebrews 3:6) So hang in there!