Receiving Forgiveness - Seeing Jesus

Christ is risen! He is risen, indeed.

This common call and response continues to resound in our hearts and minds throughout this Easter season. We know the story, and we are familiar with the correct words to say, but I wonder if we honestly appropriate the good news of Christ’s victory over death for our own lives.

“Christ is risen.”

“Alleluia! That’s good news.”

“Death has been defeated. You are forgiven and free to live a new life.”

“Wonderful! I’ll get right on that.”

“You no longer defined by your past acts, inadequacies or deficiencies.”

“OK sure, but honestly, that seems easier said than done.”

In our Scripture passage for this coming Sunday, we will share another post-resurrection narrative— discussing the third time that Jesus appears to His disciples.

In this story, we find Peter and several other disciples fishing out on the lake. Their efforts haven’t been successful but a quick encounter with Jesus changes everything. Peter realizes it is Christ and jumps from the boat to swim to shore. Peter joins Jesus around the fire. Peter joins Jesus for a meal. Jesus asks Peter three times to confirm his love and commitment to Christ. Peter has a chance to experience redemption. The three instances of, “I don’t know the man” following Jesus’ arrest, are replaced with three declarations of, “Yes, I love you Lord.” Peter is forgiven; he is made new.

In my own life, I sometimes find it difficult to accept God’s love and forgiveness and apply it to myself. Sometimes I hang on to guilt and shame far longer than I should. Accept God’s forgiveness. Walk in newness of life. May each of us truly SEE JESUS this Easter season, and may the miracle of the Resurrection bring peace and healing. Amen.

Very truly,

Pastor Adam