As we come to the close of the season of Lent, we are reminded again of the great sacrifice that Jesus made for us on the cross. Through his death and resurrection, we are offered the gift of eternal life and the hope of a glorious inheritance that we receive in part now, but ultimately when he comes again.
John 3:16 tells us that “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” This promise of eternal life is not just something we hope for in the future, but it is a present reality that we can experience right now. Jesus himself said in John 17:3, “Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.”
However, the gift of eternal life does not come without a cost. It was so high a cost that we were unable to pay it ourselves. This is where Jesus stepped in to willingly offer his own life to cover the cost of our sin. Romans 6:23 tells us that “the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” It is only through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross that we can receive the gift of eternal life and the hope of our inheritance in heaven.
As we consider what it looks like to live as if we have been given this wonderful gift, 1 Peter 5:10-11 reminds us that although we may face trials and suffering in this life, we can look forward to our eternal inheritance. “And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.”
Looking toward this Easter weekend, let us remember the great sacrifice that Jesus made for us and the gift of eternal life that he offers to us. Let us also hold fast to the hope of our inheritance that has been given to us in Jesus, knowing that no matter what we face in this life, Jesus is with us, and has promised to us a glorious inheritance of living with him forever. As the writer of Hebrews says, “May we fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith,” and continue to walk in faith in him each day.
Would you pray this prayer over this week? Dear God, thank you for the gift of eternal life through your son, Jesus. Help us to live as if we are loved and to hold fast to the hope of our inheritance in Christ, even through trials and suffering. May we continue to grow in our knowledge and love of you, and may we always remember the sacrifice that Jesus made for us on the cross. Amen.
Scripture readings this week
- April 5 – John 19
- April 6 – John 20
- April 7 – John 21
- April 10 – 1 Thessalonians 1
- April 11 –1 Thessalonians 2