Episode 101: What it means to be a child of God

On this Monday Sermon episode, we look at what it means to be called Children of God and the implications that new title has on us and the work we are called to do. After Easter Sunday, the journey of the resurrection continues. The 50-day season of Easter invites us to delve deeper into the resurrection's significance, preparing us for the moment Jesus leaves on the Ascension and the apostles being sent out on Pentecost. Just two weeks removed from the resurrection, the disciples grapple with lingering doubt and fear, but their encounters with the risen Christ transform them into fervent believers. In our readings for this coming Sunday, we witness narratives of encounter, transformation, and commissioning. Peter's transformation from bumbling disciple to fervent leader and his miraculous healing and bold proclamation call people to repentance and reconciliation. John in his first epistle reminds us of our identity as beloved children of God, empowering us to live righteous lives rooted in active, not passive, love towards one another. In Luke’s gospel, Jesus appears to his disciples, dispelling their doubts and commissioning them to be witnesses of his resurrection. Similarly, we are called to bear witness to the transformative power of Christ in our lives, embracing repentance, living as children of God, and proclaiming the good news to all nations. May we find renewal through service as well as being transformed by the resurrection, becoming beacons of light and love in a world in need of grace.