The Anchor of Easter

We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain. – (Hebrews 6:19, NIV)

This hope is like an anchor for us. It is strong and sure and keeps us safe. It goes behind the curtain. – (Hebrews 6:19, ERV)

We have this certain hope like a strong, unbreakable anchor holding our souls to God Himself. Our anchor of hope is fastened to the mercy seat in the heavenly realm beyond the sacred threshold. – (Hebrews 6:19, TPT)

The sanctuary curtain that used to separate people from the presence of God was torn in two when Jesus surrendered His last breath on the cross. What kept us from a true nearness to God was removed through the death and resurrection of Christ. This ability to draw near and be in a right relationship with God is the anchor for our soul. In this, we lay hold of the hope of both His presence now, and eternity that is yet to come. The only barrier that lies between us and God now, is us. It is up to us to receive all that the God of all creation is offering. This is what Easter is about; He came and removed the barrier between God and us, and provided hope that is firm and secure. Christ is our anchor through every storm, and where hope and love and life truly reside. May we look to the cross and remember the way that was made as Christ freely chose to take our place. Let us hold fast to the hope that is our anchor, no matter what storms cross our path.

The anchor is Christ,

Where true hope is found;

It’s firm and secure,

A love that’s renowned.

His love made the way,

Removing what stood;

Between us and God,

Mercy understood.

So, let us draw near,

With hearts full of praise;

Celebrate Easter,

Because Christ was raised.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that in You we have hope to anchor our soul, and the freedom to come before You without barriers. Thank You that You removed the curtain that stood between us and You receive us as we come, no matter what state our hearts are in. Forgive us for forgetting the security that we have in You, as You anchor our hearts to Yours and hold us close through life’s wind and waves. Teach us to embrace the grace You freely give, and cling to the hope that anchors our soul. Show us how to love those around us in ways that extend hope, safety and trust in Your goodness. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we give You all praise and gratitude through our days, for You are Who we need to navigate this life well. Amen.

© Shannon Elizabeth Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

Guide me in Your truth and teach me, for You are God my Savior, and my hope is in You all day long. – Psalm 25:5

Rightful Reverence

image by Beth Dougherty Blair

image by Beth Dougherty Blair

Two were sent ahead of Him

for a colt never ridden.

The found just as He had said,

in plain sight, and not at all hidden.

“What are you doing?”

One man predictably did ask.

“The Lord, He needs it,”

was the response given for their task.

They took it to the Lord, Himself,

and made preparations for its load.

Greeted by palm leaves and praise,

as He then traveled down the road.

The crowds of people shouted

in reverence of His glory.

For they knew of the foretelling,

the realization of His story.

The Pharisees called to Jesus,

to rebuke His disciples’ shouts.

Jesus boldly told them,

“if they’re silent, the stones will cry out.”

For the truth could not be hidden,

before them stood the King.

The God of all creation,

Ruler of EVERYTHING.

(Response to Luke 19:28-40)

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You sent Your Son into the world in a way that was tangible and approachable. Yet in that, You were still fully God. Please help us to always keep proper respect and reverence for You as our Ruler and Redeemer. Thank You that though You are all-powerful, You remain tender and approachable; ever willing to take our hand and allow us climb onto Your lap and be held. Teach us to trust both Your tenderness and Your power, and may we grant You proper authority in our hearts and homes. Lead us in Your love, so that we may live lives that shine your light brightly before all whom we encounter. May many come to call You King. Amen.

© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present