Lent: A Journey to Hope in Uncertain TimesSample

In biblical times—and some cultures today—the inheritance passed down from one generation to the next is of great significance. In one of our earlier daily readings in YouVersion, we looked previously at the demand of the prodigal son for his inheritance and the expectation of his demand. In some ways, the demand of the prodigal son was also a not-so-subtle hint that he thought he was better off with his father dead since an inheritance was usually only received when the patriarch of the family had passed on. First Peter 1 opens with a perspective that shows just how upside-down the kingdom of God is. The author of our faith, Jesus, has defeated death and now gives us a living hope through His resurrection—an active and dynamic hope because He has conquered the grave. This living Savior has given us an inheritance through His death. It’s an inheritance that is both safe in heaven for us (verse 4) and experienced here and now.

REFLECT

• What words or phrases stand out to you from the passage? Why are these concepts significant to you at this moment in your faith journey?

RESPOND

• How does this perspective on inheritance challenge us to be more open-handed and generous?