God of the Resurrection, bring new life to this dear reader in whatever area s/he may need. In Christ's name, amen.
Those in worship yesterday received a homework assignment: Memorize this verse from Romans 6:4: Just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life.
Our theme for Easter is Forgiveness: The Real "F" Word. Using the story of the Prodigal Son we saw parallels between the power to resurrect Jesus from the dead,and God's power to grant you and me ultimate forgiveness. We find a reference to that in John 3:16,and we find it in the above verse for memorization. Ours is newness of life through Jesus' resurrection. The newness is to walk free from the burden of carrying around our sins. The walls that separate us from God can and do come down through asking God for forgiveness.
Think about it: No matter what you have done, you won't have a newness of life as long as you drag or try to drag around your sin for the rest of your life. You must decide to turn that over to God. Realize that if God has the power to bring Jesus back from the dead (He does!) then God has the power to give your release from your sin (He does!).
PRAYER: Loving God, with the power of the Resurrection bring me freedom from my sin. I confess I need to turn everything over to You and receive the newness of life. I ask this in the name of He who is risen indeed, Jesus my Lord, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
