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… In all this you greatly rejoice. 1 Peter 1:3-6a
Risen and reigning Lord Jesus, this morning we join the Apostle Peter’s exuberant declaration of matchless mercy, living hope, and great joy. Hallelujah!
Your resurrection isn’t a “game changer”; it’s an everything-changer. We’re no longer afraid to die, for you have conquered death and robbed the grave. And we’re not afraid to live; for in you we have full forgiveness, perfect righteousness, and inviolate peace.
We’re not hapless spiritual orphans; we’re heaven-destined children of our Father. We’re no longer slaves to sin and shame. We are fully known and lavishly loved. Because you have risen from the dead, we are less to be pitied than anybody, and more grateful than everybody (1 Cor. 15:14-19).
Lord Jesus, you are the firstfruits and fulfillment of every promise God has made—his emphatic ‘Yes!” The New Creation world of redemption and restoration has broken into history. One blessed Day, “everything sad will come untrue,” all things broken will be made new, and your great beauty will supplant everything ugly. Hope defines our future, not hype. Joy is the air we breathe, not fear.
Right now, in the middle of this 2020 pandemic, you reign as King of kings and Lord of lords. All evil dominions and malevolent powers have been defeated. The Day of no more death and dying, viruses and villains, war and worry is coming.
Oh, the wonder, marvel and gratitude that fills our hearts today, Jesus. In light of your compelling love and measureless grace, free us for spending the rest of our days living and loving to your glory. So very Amen we pray, Lord Jesus, in your triumphant and grace-full name.