A Rebellion of Hope

Rebellion: it has such a negative connotation to it doesn't it?  When I think of the word "rebellion" I immediately get a vibe of misfits that are causing a ruckus.  Rebellion though in it's true form, more often than not is about pushing back against something, usually a misjustice.  When you hear "rebel" as a nerd, you might get the image of Han Solo, Princess Leah, or the Rogue Squadrons of Star Fighters! In those films and stories, to be a rebel was important in fighting against the darkness of the Empire and the Dark Side itself.  Being a Rebel was making a clear stand that something needs to change that the oppression happening must be stopped. This is why Empire Strikes Back is one of the most popular Star Wars films for most fans.  There is a clear vantage point that the Rebels are a small group and the Empire is a genuine threat to their very existence: the Empire cannot win. One of my favourite lines from Star Wars: Rogue One was from the main character and was one of the most memorable lines for most fans to connect with. In the midst of discussing the futility of making a final attack on an Imperial base to get the plans for the Death Star, one voice speaks up on why even risk it, "Rebellions are built on hope." And it's that hope that drives them to get the plans and to start the very first Star Wars movie aptly named "A New Hope."

You may not see it or think of it, but right now there is a fight going on around you.  I am not talking about one of the physical nature, but of a spiritual one.  C.S. Lewis said it best, "There is no neutral ground in the universe.  Every square inch, every split second is claimed by God, and counterclaimed by Satan." When Jesus came he was entering enemy territory, He was here for a mission to not overthrow a physical empire, but a spiritual one.  His death seemed like a defeat, but was really a power play.  Hebrews 2: 14-15 says it well. "Because God's children are human beings - made of flesh and blood - the Son also became flesh and blood. For only as a human being could he die, and only by dying could he break the power of the devil, who had the power of death.  Only in this way could he set free all who have lived their lives as slaves to the fear of dying." Jesus' rebellion was against sin and death; He defeated both with His death and resurrection. Ultimately, in the book of Revelation we see that He wins over all that is evil; that gives us hope when we join in Jesus' rebellion.

Have you lost hope? Do you feel like the Empire of darkness has been looming over you, making you feel like there is no freedom? Join in our rebellion, with Jesus our Rebel leader.  His rebellion is built on hope!