“To live is Christ; to die is gain. (Apostle Paul in his letter to the Church at Philippi – Philippians 1:21)

It doesn’t take long, when seeing some of those cheesy TV advertisements about some product allegedly not available in stores, to come to the catchphrase.  Near the end of the commercials, we are invariably offered an enticement to buy extra of whatever they are selling at no additional price when they say something along the lines of: “But Wait!  There Still More…”  

The thought that there is a good deal to be had is a cornerstone of consumer marketing.  The message that we can save money by spending money may seem illogical when framed as I just have, but it works well nonetheless.  As a consumer society, we are always ready to hear how we can get more for less…and there are always those who seek to convince us that they have a deal for us.  

I’m pretty resistant to those ploys, recognizing them for what they are.  That’s not to say I never look for a deal, but I try to be selective.  One that I have found that is real and has lasting value is my faith in Jesus Christ.  I have lived with Him for over 40 years, and I cannot imagine a life more rewarding, filled with contentment, and even miraculous (Man, the stories I could tell!).  

I’m on the backend of this part of the journey, but just having experienced another Easter, I’m reminded, “But Wait! There’s Still More.”  Easter celebrates the fulfillment of a promise that there is an eternal more for those who believe and follow (Job 19:26-27; Psalm 16:10; Isaiah 53:10-11; Daniel 12:2-3; Hosea 6:1-2; Luke 24:6; Romans 4:25; 1 Corinthians 15:5).  Initially it took some convincing (about five years worth), but I have bought in lock, stock and barrel.     

Paul argues (Romans 15:13-19) that without Christ’s resurrection, then bodily death really is the end, faith is futile, and those of us who have invested in this faith are to be pitied.  Apart from the resurrection of Jesus, the whole thing falls apart.  I’m betting the ranch…actually, I don’t own a ranch so to restate, I’m betting my life that my belief in these promises and my belief in Him will hold together.  I’m waiting because I believe there’s even more.  Anyone want to wait with me?              

He Is Risen!  He Is Risen Indeed!

© Byron L. Hannon, 2021.  All rights reserved to text content unless otherwise noted.