Our scripture this morning is 1 Peter 1:3-5.
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.
Peter the rough fisherman writes these tender words, praising God for the blessings He has for us. Jesus came to be with us that we might better understand our relationship with God and accept His promise of forgiveness and eternal life. Restoring this connection means we have rights and responsibilities in His kingdom.
Christ’s sacrifice for us brings salvation for all who repent and turn to Him in faith. We are counted as God’s children and as such we have “an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade.” Unlike earthly possessions which are only temporary, this inheritance “is kept in heaven for you” for the coming of the last time.
Peter, who denied Jesus three times, was forgiven and restored, and became a vital part of the spread of the Good News. We can receive this blessing in the same way. When we give up our selfish ways and turn to God we too can be forgiven, restored and sent to share the Gospel with the world.
Heavenly Father, thank You for the blessing of our savior, Jesus Christ. May we learn to live and love as He does and share that love with everyone. Amen.
