Monday, April 18 – 1 Corinthians 15:3-4

For I handed down to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures,

If you asked a friend to share what was important to you with someone else, what would they say? It would be interesting to see if they would share the same things that you say are important to you. The two lists may or may not line up. How we spend our time, money, and effort tells others what is most important to us, even more than our words.

In our passage today, Paul said the gospel message was what he believed to be “of first importance” in his life. For Paul, this went beyond sharing the message via words. He also made this evident with his life. He lived, shared, and sacrificed everything he had for the gospel. When you think about the legacy you are leaving and the things you are showing as most important to you, do they reflect your faith? Have you shown others that the gospel matters most to you?

The celebration of Easter beckons us to action. It leads us to remember the reason and foundation of the faith we practice. It reminds us that there is still more to be done for the kingdom of God on earth. May these reminders be a launchpad of your faith. May you, like Paul, pass down the gospel to those around you with reckless abandon, showing them what is most important in this short life we have to live.

• What are some things that are important to you?
• Who are some people who have shared their faith with you? How did that impact your life and faith?
• Thank God for those who have shared their faith with you and ask Him for direction on someone you need to share with.