Tuesday, October 25, 2011 - Higher Power

"Because Jesus was raised from the dead . . . "  1 Peter 1:3 (the Message)

     The fact in that verse should clear our heads, open our sleepy eyes wide and help us relax about whatever this day holds. I went to a funeral yesterday for a brother in Christ who has now relocated to his permanent home "because Jesus was raised from the dead." His wife will see him again "because Jesus was raised from the dead."  We can pray in faith for miracles "because Jesus was raised from the dead."  We can scale or move towering mountains, endure valleys "because Jesus was raised from the dead."  Roadblocks no longer signify the end of the road,  "because Jesus was raised from the dead."  Sickness, depression, frustration, anger and grief all serve as temporary faith-refiners (1 Peter 1:7) instead of permanent ways of life "because Jesus was raised from the dead."  Relationships can be restored, forgiveness received and given, and ordinary people can be transformed into giant slayers and passionate missionaries "because Jesus was raised from the dead."  In fact, (and you knew this was coming, didn't you?) "because Jesus was raised from the dead," nothing is impossible and we're left without excuse for the lack of spark in our spirits. 

"I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which He has called you, the riches of His glorious inheritance in the saints, and His incomparably great power for us who believe. 

That power is like the working of His mighty strength, which He exerted in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly realms,

far above all rule and authority, power and dominion,

and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come." Ephesians 1:18-21

    Sovereign God, show us how to open our lives to Your amazing Power. We don't want to be lifeless, ineffective believers and churches. We want what You want: to make a difference, to light the way, to introduce someone else to life in You. Use us as YOu see fit: we're instruments in Your Hands. Reveal Your Son to others through us. Empower us with the same power that raised Jesus from the dead to glorify, praise and honor You.

In the name of Jesus Who died and was raised from the dead to prove His Power over everything and everyone