N.T. Wright in his work, Surprised by Hope: Rethinking Heaven, the Resurrection, and the Mission of the Church shares that “resurrection is the beginning of God's new project not to snatch people away from earth to heaven, but to colonize earth with the life of heaven. That, after all, is what the Lord's Prayer is about.” 

Lent is to remind us of the refining work God’s Spirit. The Lenten journey begins with the ashes of burnt palms on Ash Wednesday to signify how our embrace of Jesus can turn quickly to failing him, like Peter in his three-fold denial. Today, as we wave palms and sing of the saving grace of Jesus, we also inch closer to our part in the Cross. 

Yet, today’s reflection about Peter reminds us that with grace and the power of the Holy Spirit, we are able to join Jesus’ saving work in the world. How is Christ calling you past weaknesses into the power of the Holy Spirit? Where does your bold witness to an amazing Savior need to be proclaimed?

As you move through Holy Week, make it your prayer to be filled with God’s Spirit so that you may boldly proclaim Jesus Christ. In doing so, may the blessings of Easter bring heaven near.