Resurrection is preceded by a violent death and a season in the grave.

Having been in war, you know something about violent death. So does Jesus – His was among the most violent ever. If you’re reading this, odds are good that you have not personally died a violent death… or have you? Though your body is still functioning, there may be parts of your being that feel real dead. And it feels like they were killed violently. The gravestone has “PTSD” on it. And you are experiencing your season in the grave right now.

But there is hope. There is a resurrection scheduled for you. As Tony Campolo says, referring to the days of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection: “It’s Friday, but Sunday’s coming!”