Easter Sunday: The Power of Life Through the Resurrection

Reference text: I Peter 4:12-19

     [12] Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. [13] But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. [14] If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. [15] If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. [16] However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. [17] For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God? [18] And,

     "If it is hard for the righteous to be saved,
          what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?"
     [19] So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to the faithful Creator and continue to do good.

Question of the week:

• What does the resurrection mean to you, right now, in this moment?

Additional references: John 20:1-20; Philippians 1:29; James 1:2-4

tags: I Peter, John, Philippians, James, Spring 2010