Death of the King

For those of you who didn’t know, Michael Jackson passed away last week. “The King of Pop” and his music touched millions of people around the world, from every nation and language. He had the ability to inspire and drive people, and his songs have defined culture and music for decades. His legacy changed the world of music, and people have never been the same.

Millions have mourned his passing, and the news media is filled with stories about the King. It is estimated that his funeral procession will stretch over 100 miles from Neverland Ranch to Los Angeles. As I listened to one news interview last night, I heard a young woman exclaim through her tears, “Michael Jackson will live on, because he will live on inside of our hearts… The music will keep his memory alive!” The word mourns the loss of the King of Pop.

Two thousand years ago another King died. His teaching had the ability to inspire and drive people, and his words have defined culture and life for millennia. His life and his ministry personally touched the life of thousands, but his legacy has changed the history of the world.

News media didn’t cover his death; it was just another crucifixion in a backwater province of

the Empire. His death was attended by many, but his funeral was conducted by two. His crucifixion was mourned by some and mocked by many. They nailed a sign above his head stating, “The King of the Jews,” but through his death he became the King of Kings. He doesn’t just live on in our hearts; he was resurrected and he lives at the right hand of God. And he lives in our hearts through his teachings and through his Spirit.

Remember this audacious thought: We believe in a Savior who died but wouldn't stay dead! God raised him from death so that we, too, might have eternal life. His death has brought me life, and so I must live for him!