Jesus Christ is the pioneer of our salvation.  He’s our Savior from any danger, distress or bondage.  Because of him we’ve received blessings, joy, and know that we’re saved. In him we’re assured of living a resurrected life under his Lordship.  Here we’ll have glory through his grace.  He has filled us with the power of the Holy Spirit because we’re sons and daughters of the Most High.  We’ve been emancipated and sanctified from evil which has befallen us.  As a result we’re blessed with the promise of eternal life.

Tom Brokaw (b. 1940), a TV journalist, and author said, “I think people of my generation became journalists – you know, right after the broadcast pioneer fathers – because we wanted to report the big stories.”  Brokaw was obviously explaining how pioneers influenced some journalists’ decision in pursuing their careers.  Nevertheless the biggest story for Christians is about the pioneer of salvation, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Pressures of the World

It’s all what Christ accomplished on the Cross at Calvary that has made his work a bastion against disease, suffering, and death.  No longer must we fear afflictions, because Christ is our healer, and there’s a purpose for everything under the sun.  He’s our fort against natural and unnatural disasters.  We’ve witnessed God’s forgiveness and wrath.  Some however continue to live in ignorance about the truth of eternal life haunted by demons, and the fear of hell.  But Jesus Christ understands our dilemma, and is willing to free us from our folly.

Helen Thomas (1920–2013), an opinion columnist wrote, “We don’t go into journalism to be popular.  It is our job to seek the truth and put constant pressure on our leaders until we get answers.”  If it’s all about finding answers, people must turn to Jesus Christ as the most reliable source.  In every matter, he’s the epitome of truth.  It’s good to be blessed by the Holy Spirit in knowing what’s right and true.

Bondage of Futility

 In our world some people are living defeated lives.  They are subject to oppression, social degradation, and want basic necessities.  They have turned to political leaders for deliverance, but often end up disappointed. From the news they have witnessed disappointment when it comes to solving economic and social problems.  There’s alienation of the races in finding solutions about racial harmony.  Some voters are at each other throats and might have given up on the system.  But the Prince of Peace is alive and well, and he’s eager to intervene if we’ll only let him.

Nelson Mandela (1918–2013), president of South Africa said, “We pledge ourselves to liberate all our people from the continuing bondage of poverty, deprivation, suffering, gender and other discrimination.”  These words from Mandela – as praiseworthy as they are, desire the commitment of those aligned with Christ.  Still there’s much that we don’t understand about people’s motives.  Some live in bondage for all sorts of reasons, but it takes works of faith, and a belief in God to set people free.

Abraham Lincoln (1809–1865), the 16^th president of the United States said, “Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.”  Jesus “fully man and God” passed this test.  It’s for us to emulate him, and follow our only pioneer of salvation for eternity.  He’s the glorious and outstanding model deserving of our love, praise and glory.