Second Sunday of Easter: Second Reading, Revelation 1:4-18    

Revelation 1:4-18

Are there elements of the Christian message, the biblical Christian message that you struggle with? Perhaps modern, or postmodern world thinking has dulled your thought. Or perhaps your hope? I am a Lutheran Christian and we are a creedal people. In other words, we hold to the great evangelical creeds of history. And because we do, there are certain teachings taken from the Scriptures, confessed in the creeds that a biblical Christian simply cannot waver on. This week's second reading highlights just such a teaching: the physical and visible return of Jesus Christ. 

What?! Do you mean there are people in our midst who question this cardinal doctrine of the faith? Sadly, I think the answer is yes. In fact, I fear that along with those who hold unswervingly to the faith, our world, the devil and yes, even our flesh has weakened the faith of many. And I say that because when I teach, I see “those looks.” The kind of looks that lead me to think that behind the looks are simmering questions: “Really? You think Jesus actually descended into hell following his death?” Or, “Jesus, really born of a virgin mother?” And of course that which our text deals with this week: the return of Jesus for His own. Sadly, yes I think there are some sporting “sagging” hearts and weakened faith out there. Please hear me. I do not think those who question are any less committed. They may be. But questions aren’t necessarily a sign of lack of commitment, but rather conviction. There can be a distinction between them. And weakened faith has a remedy. The remedy is that which gives birth to faith at the very start: the Word of God (see Romans 10:17). Holding to the promises of God doesn’t begin with us. We would never get there on our own. No, faith comes from outside ourselves. We receive it as a gift and then, and only then, do we really live.

As you encounter the great texts of resurrection and new life through this Easter season, remember that every great doctrine has its foundation and sustenance in the Christ who defeated death and hell. And yes, I really do believe that.