Bought and Paid For

When I started out my college career in Radio Broadcasting, I wanted to be an investigative reporter. My goal was to dig until I uncovered the true story. A sure path that will lead you to the truth beneath any story is to “follow the money”. When I read any news headline I tend to look for where the money is coming from, who is paying for the messages while asking the who, what, when, where, why and how questions.   

While reading Matthew 28, it was no surprise to me verses 11-15 stood out. Jesus’ disciples stole his body was a paid for story in attempts to bury the other story being told that day. A monetary transaction between chief priests and some guards that were posted at Jesus’ tomb.

Just before the chief priests handed over money to the soldiers, there was another transaction made. It was not an exchange of money but a life that was given so all debts could be paid in full, with no condemnation made to the debtor.  The sum of money paid to the soldiers in attempts to squash the enormity of Jesus, was futile.

The Son of God gave his life willingly, so that the many sins of this world would be forgiven, and a great multitude of many nations will be waving palm branches in their hands crying out salvation. That story could not be buried in a tomb or buried with money. For Jesus has authority over life and death.

Two transactions, one made to hide the first. Which is greater?

Jesus said, “I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

He Lives- Alfred H. Ackley

Verse 1
I serve a risen Savior,
He’s in the world today;
I know that He is living,
Whatever men may say;
I see His hand of mercy,
I hear His voice of cheer,
And just the time I need Him
He’s always near

Chorus
He lives, He lives,
Christ Jesus lives today!
He walks with me and talks with me
Along life’s narrow way.
He lives, He lives, salvation to impart!
You ask me how I know He lives:
He lives within my heart.

Verse 2
In all the world around me,
I see His loving care,
And tho my heart grows weary
I never will despair;
I know that He is leading
thru all the stormy blast,
The day of His appearing
will come at last

Chorus

Verse 3
Rejoice, rejoice, O Christian,
Lift up your voice and sing
Eternal hallelujahs to
Jesus Christ the King!
The hope of all who seek Him,
The help of all who find,
None other is so loving,
So good and kind.

Chorus

-Nikki Fielder