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Renewal Prayer Network Executive Director Pastor Jay Richmond
Advent – Week 2 – A Living Hope
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
1 Peter 1:3-5 Jesus’ initial coming to the Earth has given us hope. Because of His great mercy he has caused us to be born again into a Living Hope. Living Hope starts with Jesus and it ends with Jesus. This Living Hope is a hope of the return of Christ. Scripture tells us that this hope will not disappoint. (Romans 5:5)
What kind of hope will not disappoint? It is a hope that has moved from our head to our heart. It is a hope of deep knowing. Not just wishful thinking. “ … having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise Who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession …” (Ephesians 1:13, 14)
Once we’ve believed, the Holy Spirit seals us with His promise, a guarantee! That is why we have hope for unity. Jesus told us that the world would believe due to our love for one another. I have great hope that we will see that. Why? Because Jesus prayed it.
Now, I have had hope for something and been disappointed. So, what’s the difference? This living hope comes for the work of the Holy Spirit sealing us by His power. It is not just wishful thinking, it comes from heart knowledge. This is what Jesus has to offer us, a living hope that will not disappoint. This living hope makes us one in the Lord. This living hope is a gift from Jesus to each of us who have called upon his name. PRAYER: Father, would you renew the living hope in each of us. A hope that will not disappoint but will propel unbelievers into your arms.