Slices
Prepare
Read John 20:19–23. Reflect and give thanks for the reality that Easter changes everything. Pray that the Lord will come to you today.
Bible passage
Awaiting the new body
5 For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. 2 Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, 3 because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked. 4 For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be unclothed but to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. 5 Now the one who has fashioned us for this very purpose is God, who has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.
6 Therefore we are always confident and know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord. 7 For we live by faith, not by sight. 8 We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord. 9 So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. 10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due to us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.
Explore
Though he’s experienced Christ’s resurrection power in the midst of his sufferings in ministry, Paul still longs for that which is eternal to be revealed. He groans for heaven (vs 2,4), using the same word that in Romans 8 describes a prayerful longing that sustains God’s people as they wait for God’s purpose to be revealed (Romans 8:22,26). Paul longs to be clothed with the dwelling shaped for citizens of heaven (v 2).
But Paul’s longing for heaven is tempered by the urgency of his calling, with the Spirit’s presence being a foretaste guaranteeing all that is yet to come (v 5). These realities both confirm his authenticity as a leader and sustain him as he waits. What sustains you in your calling from God?
Given fresh courage by the Spirit, Paul determines to keep walking by faith despite circumstances that often seem discouraging. Yes, receiving his heavenly inheritance would be great, but Paul resolves to pursue his divine calling as fruitfully as he can. He’s accountable for pleasing God, and that’s the only criterion he recognises as a fit way to judge his life. In what ways do you seek to please God?
Respond
Many situations in our world feel completely beyond us. But choose one and ask the Spirit to show and equip you for how to pray for it (perhaps through wordless groans as in Romans 8:26,27).
Bible in a year
Read the Bible in a year: Nehemiah 1,2; Psalm 78:1–37
Pray for Scripture Union
Pray that Database Officer Meri Suokas will be able to turn complex data into clear insights that help guide decision-making and ensure that we use our resources effectively – all so that more children and young people can hear the good news of Jesus in ways that fit their context.
Because a strong start begins with smart preparation
Starting secondary school is more than new classrooms and new friends. It’s a season of growth, challenge and discovery. For some children, it’s exciting. For many, it’s overwhelming. And for all, it’s a defining moment.
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