Based on the Ancient Eucharistic Acclamation: "Christ Has Died, Christ Is Risen, Christ Will Come Again"
Scripture
Revelation 1:17–18 “Fear not, I am the First and the Last, and the Living
One. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death
and Hades.”
Reflection
The ancient acclamation—Christ has
died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again—is one of the simplest and
strongest summaries of the Christian faith. It is the gospel in three
movements, each one declaring what God has done, what God is doing, and what
God will surely do.
Christ has died. This is the unshakeable foundation of our salvation. Jesus
did not merely teach us or inspire us—He gave Himself for us. His death
is the once-for-all sacrifice that breaks the power of sin and reconciles us to
the Father. Every time we confess these words, we anchor ourselves again in the
cross.
Christ is risen. The resurrection is not only a past event; it is a present
power. The Living One walks with His people, intercedes for us, strengthens us,
and fills us with His Spirit. Because He lives, we live. Because He reigns, we
have hope. Because He is risen, nothing in our lives is beyond His ability to
redeem.
Christ will come again. This final phrase lifts our eyes beyond the present
moment. It reminds us that history is not drifting; it is moving toward a
glorious return. Christ will finish what He began. He will wipe every tear,
judge evil, renew creation, and gather His people into everlasting joy. The
future is not uncertain—it is promised.
When we speak this acclamation, we are
not merely reciting doctrine. We are proclaiming the story that shapes our
identity, sustains our hope, and fuels our worship. It is the heartbeat of the
Church and the anchor of our souls.
Closing
Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, We thank You that
You died for us, rose again in victory, and will return in glory. Fix our
hearts on Your cross, fill our lives with Your resurrection power, and keep us
watchful for Your coming kingdom. Strengthen our faith, deepen our hope, and
make us faithful witnesses until You appear. For You are the Living
One—yesterday, today, and forevermore. Amen.
Rev. Todd Crouch, Pastor
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