THE LAST LAUGH

His first public announcement after the Resurrection was just one word: “REJOICE!” (Matthew 28:9). Interestingly, the same root word in Greek (“chairo”) was used by Judas in his kiss of betrayal, and by the soldiers to mock Him (26:49; 27:29). Christ’s enemies rejoiced that they had finished Him, that His cause was dead, and His followers, crushed. But, No! He rose! His one-word announcement, “REJOICE,” was His clear answer to sorrow on account of betrayal, injustice, humiliation, hate, and hurt. Good is stronger than evil, and truth, mightier than falsehood. In the Upper Room, He promised: “You will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice (chairo); and you will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will be turned into joy (chairo)” (John 16:20; cf. 22). Yes, the fortunes will be reversed! Sorrow will bow, and you’ll have the last laugh! Rejoice!—Samuel Koranteng-Pipim