Die Hoffnung stirbt zuletzt

A proverb says, "Hope dies last!" If this proverb were true, death would be the end of hope. In his Pentecost sermon, Peter explained that death could no longer hold Jesus: "God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to hold him." (Apg 2,24).

Later, Paul explained that Christians, as represented in the symbolism of baptism, participate not only in the crucifixion of Jesus but also in his resurrection. “For we were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. For if we have been united with him in his death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection.” (Röm 6,4-5).

That is why death has no eternal power over us. In Jesus we have victory and hope that we will rise to eternal life. This new life began when we accepted the life of the risen Christ in us by believing in him. Whether we live or die, Jesus remains in us and that is our hope.

Physical death is difficult, especially for the relatives and friends left behind. However, it is impossible for death to hold the deceased, because they are in a new life in Jesus Christ, who alone has eternal life. “And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” (Joh 17,3)For you, death is no longer the end of your hopes and dreams, but the transition to eternal life in the arms of the heavenly Father, who made all this possible through his Son Jesus Christ!

by James Henderson