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)
Risen and reigning Lord Jesus, we join the Apostle Peter’s bold declaration of living hope and great joy. For you have risen from the dead, and this isn’t just a game changer; it’s an everything-changer.
Because of your resurrection, we’re neither afraid to die nor fear-full in life; we’re not hapless vagabonds on earth, we’re hope-filled children of our Father. We’re no longer enslaved to our sins; we’re now robed in your righteousness. Those who’ve “gone to sleep” in you, aren’t slumbering in the void; they’re rejoicing—fully alive in your presence.
Because you were raised, Jesus, we’re less to be pitied than anybody, and more to be grateful than everybody (1 Cor. 15:14-19). You are the firstfruits and guarantee of a whole new order—the “new creation” world of redemption and restoration. “Everything sad will come untrue,” and all things will be made new. How we long for that über-glorious Day.
Because of your resurrection, you are already reigning as King of kings and Lord of lords. All evil dominions, wicked authorities, and malevolent powers now stand defeated; and one Day they will be fully eradicated. “Hallelujah!” we shout with joyful anticipation.
Jesus, your death is the death of death, and your resurrection is for the renewal 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 and loving to your glory. So very Amen we pray, Jesus, in your triumphant and grace-full name.
