I Know that My Redeemer Lives

"For I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last he will stand upon the earth.  And after my skin has been thus destroyed, yet in my flesh I shall see God, whom I shall see for myself, and my eyes shall behold, and not another."  Job 19: 25-27

These verses are the basis for the common Easter hymn, "I Know That My Redeemer Lives."  We sing the words as a proclamation of Jesus' resurrection, His atonement for our sins, and the assurance that we have of life everlasting with Him.  I find it intriguing that these verses are not found in the New Testament spoken by Mary or one of the disciples after finding the empty tomb on Easter morning, or after seeing Christ for themselves when He appeared to them, but instead they are found in the Old Testament, spoken by Job to his friends after he has suffered the loss of his wealth, his children, and his own health.  He speaks these words with confidence while enduring tremendous adversity in order to paint a clear picture that he has of his hope in salvation and everlasting life.  His testimony, especially under these circumstances, is an excellent reminder of just how much hope and comfort our Redeemer brings.  Job is able to look beyond his time on earth, and his earthly suffering to see what awaits him and all believers when his physical life has ended.

Job's proclamation brings great comfort as I think about Lynnea and all of the suffering that she endured during her short time here with us on earth, and all of the glory that she is now experiencing in heaven because of Christ's death and resurrection.  It is immensely comforting to know that, no matter how much suffering this life brings, ultimately there is not only an end to that suffering, but unimaginable glory and joy waiting for us.  He is risen.  He is risen indeed.  Hallelujah.