By: Clint Fisher, Dean of students and families

The brokenness of this world weighs on us all at times, and most of our days are spent pursuing things that help distract us from that emptiness. At our Easter Chapel last week, we had the opportunity to hear several accounts from alumni that illustrated how they experienced brokenness. These were real stories portrayed by actors on stage. One student shared the facade of happiness she maintained to preserve friendships, despite rarely experiencing genuine joy. Another admitted feeling helpless while struggling to make friends, seeking fulfillment in various other things, only to find temporary relief and increasing despair. Another sought refuge in humor and was endlessly getting into trouble, creating a sense of worthlessness. The two final testimonies depicted someone who had it all and another who consistently fell short, both experiencing emptiness and questioning their ability to find true purpose and happiness. 

THE RESURRECTION AND THE LIFE

Throughout life, many wrestle with feelings of worthlessness, meaninglessness, and hopelessness, believing their value hinges on accomplishments, actions, or the approval of others.

It is at this place that Jesus enters.

He told Mary that He was the Resurrection and the Life when Lazarus died (John 11:25-26), a promise not only for the afterlife but for the present. Just as He resurrected Lazarus to life on Earth, He continues to redeem the brokenness of this world. Sometimes this means literal restoration, like in the story of Lazarus, while other times it is an affirmation of His role as the source of resurrection and life, independent of our circumstances… 

 As the Good Shepherd, He attends to our longing for care.
(John 10:11) 

 As the Bread of Life, He satisfies our hunger for fulfillment.
(John 6:35)  

 As the Vine, He grants us the strength and capability to achieve.
(John 15:5) 

Jesus is the Resurrection from the brokenness surrounding us and within us and the Life that meets our needs, wants, and desires more than anything this world offers.