By Tom Ellsworth 
At the time many condescendingly referred to it as “Seward”s Folly”””because U.S. Secretary of State William H. Seward brokered the deal and was its biggest promoter””but the purchase of Alaska from Russia was anything but foolish. Rich in gold, copper, and oil, its value has far exceeded the 1867 purchase price of 2 cents per acre.
Part of this grand acquisition (twice the size of Texas) is a tiny island with a big story. Only 2.8 square miles in size, Little Diomede Island rises out of the water in the middle of the Bering Strait and is home to 147 residents. With a name like Little Diomede, you might suppose there is a Big Diomede Island, and you would be right. Less than three miles to the west lies the larger island. Theoretically, not much separates these two islands, but these two dots of land are truly worlds apart. Big Diomede Island is the easternmost point of Russia, therefore:
“¢ The islands belong to two very distinct nations.
“¢ The islands are located on two separate continents.
“¢ The inhabitants speak two different languages and celebrate two diverse cultures.
And yet for all of that, there is one greater distinction. The international date line runs between Little Diomede Island in the United States and Big Diomede Island in Russia. What”s the big deal, you ask? Being separated by the international date line means that for a few hours the residents of Big Diomede are a day ahead on the calendar. Do you realize how unique that is? On a clear day, you could stand on the hill of Little Diomede, look across that channel of water to the coast of Big Diomede, and see tomorrow!
During the first century, many in Jerusalem considered the story of an empty tomb the “Apostle”s Folly.” We know better. The heartbreak of the cross was followed by the incredible news of Jesus Christ”s resurrection.
Theoretically, not much separates these two events””just three days””but from another perspective, these two events are truly worlds apart. One was shrouded in tears, the other overflowed with joy. One paid the wage for our past behavior while the other paved the way for our future blessings.
Incredibly, we celebrate both when we come to the Lord”s Supper. I”m grateful for Paul”s insight, “For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord”s death until he comes“ (1 Corinthians 11:26, author”s emphasis). During Communion, we don”t just reflect on the tragedy, we also proclaim his triumph. You can stand on the hill of Calvary, look across the channel of time to the coast of Heaven, and see tomorrow!
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Tom Ellsworth serves as senior minister with Sherwood Oaks Christian Church in Bloomington, Indiana.Â
Very good.
Fascinating illustration.
You could use it to show the distinct “islands” all of humanity live on.
Little Diomede could represent the Church, while Big Diomede could represent the world.
If you don’t mind, Mr Ellsworth, I’m going to steal your illustration. 🙂