As Peter began writing his first letter to the Christians who were exiles of the Dispersion, he wrote, “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” (1 Peter 1:3). There are certainly some weighty matters resting within this one verse. But perhaps the greatest reality for the follower of Jesus is the hope we have in Christ.
Peter acknowledged the fact that God and Jesus are blessed. Then he proceeded to explain why and to offer some very encouraging words to his reader. God, because of His great mercy, has caused us to be born again to a living hope. This hope, this eager expectation, has come to us through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.
So, what exactly was Peter saying here? God has showered us with His mercy. He has made available to us a hope that is very much alive, and this came about through the resurrection of Jesus. So, why is that important? Well, we can rest assured knowing that our hope is living because Jesus is living. Thanks be to God for His mercy and love! Thanks be to God for the living hope that is ours in Jesus Christ!
