The Christmas Tree

🎄 Exploring how God changed the world through the Cross and how “trees” are woven into this redemption story of grace.

Week 5: The Tree of Life Restored & The Light of the World (Days 21–25)

Theme: The story that began with death under a tree ends with eternal life and everlasting light through Jesus.

Days 21–25 by Pastor Kevin O’Connor

Day 21: The Empty Tomb and Eternal Life — John 20:1–18

🌿 The disciples and followers of Jesus had endured unimaginable sorrow. In just a week, they had gone from celebrating His triumphal entry into Jerusalem to witnessing His crucifixion. But three days later, everything changed.

When Mary approached the tomb, she found the stone rolled away—and the grave empty. Moments later, the risen Christ appeared to her, confirming that death had been defeated once and for all. The promise made in a garden so long ago had been fulfilled. Through the resurrection of Jesus, eternal life is available to all who believe in Jesus and receive Him as their Savior.

Notice something beautiful: the story that began in a garden with sin and separation ends in a garden with redemption and reunion. When Mary mistook Jesus for the gardener, she wasn’t entirely wrong—He is the true Gardener, restoring what was lost in Eden. The empty tomb stands as the declaration of our living hope.

✨ Christmas Truth to Ponder: Eternal life isn’t something we wait for—it begins the moment we believe in Jesus.
🙏 Today’s Action Step: Thank Jesus for the victory He secured and look for ways to bring His life-giving hope to someone who feels spiritually dead.
🔔 Preview for Tomorrow: The Tree of Life Restored.