April 19, 2020 - 1 Peter 1:3-9 - Easter 2 - Pastor Paul Zell

This Sunday, we saw that since the gospel rests on the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and since his resurrection is a verifiable fact, then the doubts and fears that push against our faith will not topple us. This is not to say that we will never have misgivings or worries. We will. In fact, like Thomas we can be honest about them. Yet pay close attention to where those doubts and fears come to an end. With his words of peace Jesus steps in and deals with the disciples’ fears and Thomas’ doubts, just as he does for you and me. That is why we can join the Apostle Peter in praising God for the “living hope” that someday we will receive “an inheritance that is kept in heaven for us.” It is true that in this lifetime we will suffer all kinds of trials, yet we trust that they are refining our faith and strengthening our hope. Yes, though we do not see Jesus now, we believe in him and are looking forward to the final salvation of our souls at the Last Day.