Dear Amy,

Firstly, why am I writing to you on a Tuesday rather than a Wednesday? As you know, I like to ask the big questions, so let’s start with that! In fact, Megan and I are in Glenorchy, just about to embark on the Rees-Dart track, so we’ll be out of coverage for the next four days, and that’s the reason. With that out of the way, let’s move on to the next big question. 😁

What was the first Easter victory, and how did that lead to the second?

Two victories? Yes, really! The first victory was won on the cross, as Jesus died.

Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.

― John 19:30

Finished here means completed, fulfilled, accomplished. A triumphant, “I have done it!” This is the first victory, won at inconceivable cost, to the Son and the Father both. It is victory over sin, in our lives.

How did this lead to the second? Paul explains exactly how.

Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:

Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death⸺even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

― Philippians 2:5-11

The how is in the therefore. Jesus made himself obedient even to death on a cross, and therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name. This is the second victory, resurrection victory over death itself, in his life and ours both.

Just how exalted is Jesus? Every knee should bow, and every tongue confess. Here’s John’s vision of the end of time:

Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, singing: “To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honour and glory and power, for ever and ever!”

The four living creatures said, “Amen”, and the elders fell down and worshipped.

― Revelation 5:13-14

Fall down with them, Amy, and worship the one who is worthy to receive praise and honour and glory and power, for ever and ever! 🙏🙌