JULY 26, 1 Corinthians 15:4-8

You may have read from books or watched National Geographic programmes on how some rich and powerful people were buried. One such famous person was Napoleon – a great ruler of France. Years ago, he led the French army to conquer many countries.

But his power was short-lived. After his army lost a decisive war, Napoleon was captured and exiled to an island where he remained until he died.

Years later, to hail their fallen hero, the French took the body of Napoleon back to France. They decided to do something unusual – what they thought befitting of such a great man, putting his body into one coffin, which was then inserted into a larger coffin. In all, six coffins were used with different precious materials.

Today, many French and tourists visit the church where Napoleon’s coffin is kept. But Napoleon is dead. Can he help the French? Even when he was alive, he became great only by using force and authority.

Our beloved Jesus is infinitely greater than Napoleon. He didn’t have to force people to follow and love Him. Napoleon killed thousands to maintain his position; Jesus instead died to save us. The Lord Jesus was 100% God and 100% man. And very important to note, as verse 4 reminds us – Jesus was raised three days after He died. He is not in some coffin or cave. He is now in heaven with God the Father.

Thought: Jesus is the greatest!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for sending the Lord Jesus to die on the cross to save me from my sins. I am also grateful that the Lord Jesus is now my risen and living Saviour. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.