The word “inheritance” can bring about mixed emotions. For many, it means heartbreak because of the loss of a loved one. The physical inheritance may be nice, but it doesn’t replace the life that is now gone. Some inheritances can drastically change the way we live while others may offer minimal, if any impact. Peter gives us a different perspective on the potential life that an inheritance can offer. 1 Peter 1:3-4 says, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you,” Human inheritance is temporary, but the inheritance that awaits us because of the resurrection of Jesus lasts forever. This inheritance is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading. It brings us out of spiritual poverty and destitution and into total fulfillment and life. It is a living hope.
Eugene Peterson expresses this hope beautifully in verses 3-5 of the Message: “What a God we have! And how fortunate we are to have him, this Father of our Master Jesus! Because Jesus was raised from the dead, we’ve been given a brand-new life and have everything to live for, including a future in heaven—and the future starts now! God is keeping careful watch over us and the future. The Day is coming when you’ll have it all—life healed and whole.” This hope is not only for eternity but it is also for today. Our future starts now. The resurrection of Jesus Christ declares victory! A brand new life! It provides the joy of living healed and whole. It frees us to live the lives that God has intended for us to live; today and forever. Oh, what a promise! A promise that has been sealed for all eternity.
How does the power of the resurrection, the message that Jesus Christ died for you then rose again and sealed your future, change the way you live today? As you reflect on the impact that the resurrection has in your life, listen to this song, remembering that Jesus Christ is your living hope. Phil Wickham – Living Hope (Official Music Video)
Lynette Fuson
Care & Counseling Director