What is a paradox?
It’s not a couple of doctors hanging out together 🙂 A paradox is, according to the Oxford dictionary, “a seemingly absurd or self-contradictory statement or proposition that when investigated or explained may prove to be well founded or true.”
Here’s a song with lyrics full of paradox about Jesus, and it’s powerful. Listen to Resurrecting by Christian artist Elevation Worship.Â
Here is a sample of these seemingly contradictory statements that inspire our faith and praise in the saving work of Jesus:
Jesus’ crown—once thorns, now glory
Feet—once Jesus knelt to wash ours, now we bow at his
Jesus Robed—once with our sin, now in majesty
Fear—once held us, now gives way to Jesus who is our peace
Jesus’ Breath—his final, now alive in me
Jesus’ Tomb—borrowed!
Soldiers—watched Jesus’ tomb in vain
Resurrected King—resurrecting me
The Bible says that believers in Jesus are “united with him in a resurrection like his” (Romans 6:5). That’s this song. Because Jesus rose, you and I and all believers rise. Yes, at the last day in the final bodily resurrection. But also today. Now. “That we too may live a new life” (Romans 6:4).
Every day we are resurrecting in the sanctified life that lives more like the risen, victorious Jesus. His victory is ours!
PRAYER: Dear Jesus, you are risen from the dead and victorious over sin, death and the devil. You died and now live! I have died to sin and now live a new life, united by baptism with your death and resurrection. Help me remember this and let it rule my life now and forever. Amen.
FURTHER MEDITATION: Read Romans 6:1-14 for a deeper dive into being united with Jesus Christ in his death and resurrection. Because this is real and true for believers, how does it change us? How does it make today different than you thought it would be?