John 16:33 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you may have tribulation. But, take heart; I have overcome the world.
Several summers ago, I was involved in a near drowning incident. (see “Just Keeping Swimming” ) It was the first time I “cheated” death. While I was extremely happy that all parties made it out okay, it was also terrifying. I realized for the first time my childhood innocence ran deep. I realized my naivety about life and how precious it is was vast. My humanity and vulnerability were thrown in my face. It was the weirdest feeling of being completely devastated and overwhelmingly blessed and thankful all at the same time. Basically, I was a wreck in the immediate aftermath.
The next morning as I was debriefing the incident, there were so many questions as to “how” and “why”. I hate playing the what if game, so I excused myself from the room. I found myself walking along the lake that could have claimed my life. I was lost in my own thoughts when a very wise, good, and true friend quietly appeared by my side. Not many words were shared as there wasn’t much to say. After walking a bit further we stopped and watched as the sun began to set. It was oddly beautiful and peaceful. After what was probably a really long time, my friend gave me a truth that I would cling to.
All she said was “Jesus wins. Nothing else really matters. We know how it ends. We lose battles and moments, but we win. In the end, Jesus always wins.”
That conversation changed my perspective about problems, turmoil, and life in general. Life isn’t easy. We are put through situations and faced with decisions that are way too difficult for us to handle. God allows us to be stretched, thinned, and broken so we trust in his strength, love, and sovereignty.
“Jesus Wins” became my life credo after that experience. I remind myself almost on a daily basis of that simple truth. I wear it on a bracelet and have it written in several places in my life just to help myself remember. Even on good days or through mountaintop experiences “Jesus Wins” is still a great anthem to sing out in our life.
That is what “Jesus wins” means to me.
Kourt
1 Corinthians 15:56-58 The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. 57 But Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the word of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.
