Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. In all this you greatly rejoice. 1 Peter 1:3-6a (NIV)
Exalted and resurrected Jesus, we join the Apostle Peter’s bold declaration of living hope and great joy. For you have risen from the dead, and this good news changes everything.
Because of your resurrection, Jesus, we’re now neither afraid to die, nor afraid to live. We’re not hapless vagabonds on earth; we’re hope-filled citizens of heaven. We’re no longer enslaved to our sins; we’re now wrapped in your righteousness.
Because of your resurrection, Jesus, we’re to be less pitied than anybody, and more grateful than everybody (1 Cor. 15:14-19). You are the firstfruits and guarantee of a whole new order—the “new creation” realm of redemption and restoration. One Day, everything sad will come untrue, and all things broken will be made new. How we long for that Day.
Because of your resurrection, Jesus, you’re already reigning as King of kings and Lord of lords. All evil dominions, wicked authorities, and malevolent powers now stand defeated, and will be fully eradicated. Things are not as they appear. You live, love, and reign over all things.
Jesus, your death is the death of death, and your resurrection is the resurrection of all things. You died for our sins and have been raised for our justification. Oh, the wonder, marvel and gratitude that fills our hearts today. We are forgiven, we are beloved, and we are yours!
In light of this living hope and compelling love, this measureless grace and eternal inheritance, free us for spending the rest of our days living to your glory. So very Amen we pray, Lord Jesus, in your praise-worthy and powerful name.