If all we get out of Christ is a little inspiration for a few short years, we’re a pretty sorry lot. But the truth is that Christ has been raised up, the first in a long legacy of those who are going to leave the cemeteries (1 Corinthians 15:19,20 MSG).

I don’t fancy myself an innovator. I definitely lean toward “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” but I’m grateful for everyone out there constantly thinking outside the box. Where would we be without the person who decided to build the first car or phone or computer? How different would our lives look today if the internet had never existed? What about the heroes who decided to make the first pizza or ice cream? How about a round of applause for the discoverers of chocolate! 

It only takes one. One to challenge “but that’s just the way things have always been!” One to volunteer as tribute (cue theme music for The Hunger Games); one to do something differently and therefore, blaze a new trail for all who follow behind.

Jesus was The One for all of humanity. He put aside his glory to step into our messy world, and how he lived and died changed everything for all of us forever. 

But wait! There’s more!

Paul reminds the Corinthians in chapter 15 that Jesus’ resurrection changes everything for everyone …      forever. He didn’t come to make things better for a few years–he defeated sin and death once and for all.

Jesus redirects, retells, and redeems the story begun by Adam and Eve. Adam’s sin and death became the pattern for all who would follow. ENTER JESUS. Jesus’ resurrection from death changes the pattern for all who are forgiven of their sins through their faith in him.

Through Adam’s disobedience, death entered the world, but the obedience of Jesus brings life to all who believe. Bless the Lord!

I think we can all agree that the gift given us all through Jesus’ death and resurrection is better than pizza or chocolate or the internet, but eternal thanks to God, the Master Innovator, for seeing what was broken and taking steps to fix it!