By Matthew Leighty
Executive Director

How would your life change if the greatest tragedy you faced turned into your greatest triumph?

People love a good transformation story. Whether it’s in books, movies, or real life, there’s something incredibly compelling about watching someone rise from the depths of despair to achieve greatness. One of my favorite stories is that of Jean Valjean from Victor Hugo’s “Les Misérables.” Once a hardened criminal, Valjean is transformed by a bishop’s act of kindness. This single moment of grace leads him to turn his life around, becoming a successful businessman and a benefactor to many. His journey from darkness to light mirrors the transformation we celebrate at Easter.

This theme of sudden, dramatic change resonates deeply throughout scripture. It powerfully reminds us of the potential for renewal and hope we have through our powerful and almighty God.

Consider the story of David and Goliath. Young David, armed only with a sling and his faith in God, defeats the giant Goliath, turning a moment of impending doom into a miraculous victory. Similarly, with his small army, Gideon overcomes the vast Midianite forces through God’s guidance, transforming a situation of hopelessness into one of triumph. And yet another powerful example is Moses holding out his staff as God parts the waters of the Red Sea, so the Israelites can cross on dry ground and deliver them from their Egyptian enemies.

This sudden transformation from despair to deliverance showcases God’s power and faithfulness.

In 1 Corinthians 15:12-19, Paul paints a bleak picture of what life would be like if Christ had not been resurrected. He emphasizes the hopelessness and despair that would prevail. However, in verse 20, Paul shifts to a message of assurance and hope: “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep” (ESV). This verse is a cornerstone of our faith, affirming the reality of Christ’s resurrection and its significance for all believers.

The term “firstfruits” signifies that Christ’s resurrection is the first and very best of many, a guarantee of the future resurrection for all who believe in Him. It transforms our understanding of life and death, offering us a hope that transcends our present circumstances. This assurance of the resurrection is not just a future promise but a present reality that empowers us to live with a purpose and joy found in Christ our Lord.

Just as David, Gideon, and Moses experienced profound transformations, we too are invited to embrace the hope and renewal that come with Christ’s resurrection. The journey from Lent to Easter, from Christ’s death to His resurrection, is a powerful reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is always the promise of new life and redemption.

There were days at this ministry when finances were tight, and we would seriously wonder how we might pay payroll or cover our bills. My finance manager would remind me of God’s power when we would pray for donations to keep things going. And sure enough, a gift would arrive to help us through those lean times. Even as the ministry has grown and prospered under God’s blessings, prayers and support are as vital now as ever before, because our impact is larger, and the work becomes more critical every day to help aging adults with resources to live an abundant life in Christ.

This ministry continues to thrive, thanks to faithful believers like you. This month kicks off our “50 Days of Blessings,” a giving initiative that runs from Easter to Pentecost. Won’t you please consider making a gift at this time to further the work of this important mission? Mail your donation or give online at WorshipAnew.org/50blessings. Your support is vital for our work of sharing the Gospel with those who desperately need God’s Word.

As we reflect on these powerful stories of transformation, from the inspiring journey of Jean Valjean in “Les Misérables” to the biblical accounts of David, Gideon, and Moses, we are reminded of the profound impact of faith and hope.

Just as Paul transitions from the bleakness of 1 Corinthians 15:12-19 to the assurance of Christ’s resurrection in verse 20, we too can find comfort and strength in the promise of new life.

This Easter, let us embrace the renewal and joy that come with the resurrection, knowing that even in our darkest moments, there is always the promise of redemption and triumph. Your support of Worship Anew helps us continue to share this message of hope with aging adults, empowering them to live abundant lives in Christ.