A LIFE OF TRIUMPH
II Corinthians 2: 14-17
And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.
Colossians 2:15
On a certain work-related visit I made to the United States, a person who greatly appreciates me wanted to take me to a beauty salon to have my gray hairs colored and to get a manicure, because I looked older than I should. Our western culture tends more and more each day to propagate the notion that we must triumph over everything. This notion carries with it an implicit public image with certain characteristics such as youth, a stylish figure, a stereotypical smile, etc.
When Paul writes his letters to the Corinthians he speaks about being triumphant in Christ. The image which he presents to them is of the reception given to the Roman generals and their soldiers when they returned triumphant from a battle. But, who can achieve this and how? Paul’s answer is “in Christ Jesus.” Yes, Christ has already achieved victory and invites us to participate together with Him in the victory parade. It is up to us to accept His invitation, with the challenge that it involves, and to follow him from triumph to triumph.
Prayer: Lord, teach me to enjoy the victory of your resurrection. Amen
Elisa Menocal, M.A.
Visiting Professor of English
Evangelical Theological Seminary
Matanzas, Cuba
Elisa Menocal is a member of the Ardmore Presbyterian Church, sent to the Evangelical Theological Seminary in Cuba. She is spending the year there teaching English and translating for the school.
