May 7, 2017 4th SUNDAY OF EASTER-A

Acts 2:14, 36-41

Psalm 23

1 Peter 2:20-25

John 10:1-10

By his wounds you have been healed.  1 Peter 2:24

“I came so that they may have life and have it more abundantly.”  John 10:10

Lord, it’s often helpful to return to the basics and to step back and see the “big picture.”  When times get tough or we are tempted to doubt, the Easter message can encourage and renew our spirits.  These words, Lord, are the heart of your gospel, your good news.  These words tell me that you have healed my wounds by yours.  They tell me that you have won for me the ultimate lottery ticket of abundant life.  A life of forgiveness when I fail.  A life of grace when I want to give up.  A life of strength when I am weak.  Dear Jesus, may I recall every day of my life that you came for me.  That you suffered agony and death for me.  That you rose from the grave to give me hope.  That you sent your Holy Spirit to lead me to your kingdom.  I thank you, Lord, from the bottom of my heart for walking with me every day of my life.  Amen.