We use the word “hope” quite often in regular speech, saying wishful things like “I hope it doesn’t rain.” Hope is a positive attitude toward the future, whether or not it’s well-grounded.

The Easter hope is grounded on the reality of the resurrection.

It’s a well supported historical event. The many reasons to believe include the facts around the empty tomb, the ongoing existence of the church, the martyrdom of the Apostles, and the numerous people whose lives have been changed by Jesus.

But why was it needed? Romans 5:6 is explicit. It was needed because of our weakness, ungodliness and sin. “God shows his love for us in this, that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (5:8). Jesus paid our debt even before we were asking. As a result, Christians are justified, meaning declared guilt-free, resulting in peace with God, access to the grace in which we are already standing, and rejoicing in a hope that does not put us to shame (5:1-2).

Romans 5:3-4 points to the usefulness of suffering as a believer with regard to hope. Such tribulations lead to endurance which leads to character which leads to hope. God is building our character for a specific future when Jesus returns. The Christian hope looks toward that future. On the morning of the resurrection, God’s future came into our present, a kind of “first-fruits” of what is to come.

Hope is not about “going to heaven” when we die. It’s about heaven happening here “on earth as it is in heaven.”

Taking It Home: Do you see “salvation” more here or elsewhere in heaven? Reflect on the places right now where you see evidence of the kingdom of God breaking into your world.