In the beginning of human history, our first parents walked with God. But rather than living by the Creator’s word of life, they listened to the Devil’s lie and fell into sin. In their rebellion they tried to be like God. We too are fallen in that first sin. We prove each day that we are guilty sinners: We fail to thank God, and break His laws. All areas of life—family and friendship, work and worship, school and state, play and art—are wounded by our rebellion. Apart from God’s grace, we stand condemned, under His judgment, facing eternal punishment and separation from Him.
God sent His Son Jesus Christ to be our Savior from sin. He is the long-awaited Messiah, one with God and one with us, fully divine and fully human, conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. He carried God's judgment on our sin—his sacrifice removed our guilt. He alone paid the debt of our sin; there is no other Savior. God’s grace is free to save sinners who cry out to him for forgiveness and mercy- this is the Good News, the Gospel!
God raised Jesus Christ from the dead: He walked out of the grave, conqueror of sin and death—and He now reigns as Lord of Life! He will restore and heal everything that was wounded by our rebellion. Through Christ we are set right with God, given new life, and called to walk with Him in freedom from sin's dominion. His new people are also called to work for His peace, His shalom, by practicing mercy and justice toward all people and working for the well being of our communities.
We long for that day when our bodies will also be raised, the Lord will wipe away every tear, and we dwell forever in the presence of God in the new heaven and earth. And so will rejoice in His return: Come, Lord Jesus, come!