Proof of our Peace – Family Devotion – April 24, 2020

Read: Acts 2:14a, 22-32

Seeing what was to come, he spoke of the resurrection of the Messiah, that he was not abandoned to the realm of the dead, nor did his body see decay. God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of it.
Acts 2:31-32

Proof of our Peace

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

“No way! Not possible! I’ll believe it when I see it,” said Tom. Eric insisted that the story was true. “Really. The fish was over three feet long and over 100 pounds. Really!” But Tom refused to believe it. “I’ve never heard of a fish that big in that lake. Do you have any proof? A picture? A selfie? Did anyone else see this?” Eric was so frustrated! He had left his phone in the car that day, and he was fishing by himself. How would Tom ever believe his awesome story and share in his fishy-joy?

People today question the truth often. “No way! Where’s the proof? I’ll believe it when I see it.” Sadly, so many people lie, cheat, and deceive that it’s hard to believe any story these days unless there are witnesses or proof that can back up the story.

In the same way, many people today—and many people long ago—do not believe the story of Jesus rising from the dead. “No way! Not possible! Where’s the proof?” What are we to make of this story? Is it the truth? Or is it just another “fishing story” that has lots of entertainment but little truth?

Dear Christians, not to worry! Jesus’ resurrection is a true story and there is a lot of proof of this. Today we hear a little part of Peter’s famous sermon on the great day of Pentecost. Many people were questioning the disciples and the Easter story. But Peter gives us three great reasons why we can believe that Jesus really is alive.

First, God prophesied through King David that the Savior would rise from the dead, and Jesus fulfilled those promises. Second, we know that Jesus fulfilled those promises because his tomb is empty. Third, we know for sure that the tomb is empty (and it’s not just a trick) because many people—like Peter—were eyewitnesses who saw Jesus alive. In fact, the Bible tells us that more than 500 people saw Jesus after he rose from the dead!

What wonderful news! The most important story of all time is also a true story. Because that story is true, that also means that truly you are forgiven, you are a child of God, and you will go to heaven. Those facts are most certainly true because the Easter story is true. Jesus lives, and so will you—truly! Rejoice!

Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia!

Closing Prayer:

Risen Savior, your empty tomb is proof that I will also rise to life. Your eyewitnesses also give proof that you are alive. Now help me to be a witness who shares this truth with others. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• How do we know for sure that Jesus is alive?
• What people do you want to tell the good news of Jesus to?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What does it mean if you “doubt” something? What does it mean if you “believe” something?
• Why do you think many people back then or even now today doubt that Jesus rose from the dead?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Why was it important for Jesus to appear alive to more than just a couple people?
• Explain why Jesus’ resurrection proves he is who he claims to be and that Christianity is the one true religion.

Hymn: CW #165 – O Sons and Daughters of the King

O sons and daughters of the King,
Whom heav’nly hosts in glory sing,
Today the grave has lost its sting!
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!

On this most holy day of days
To God your hearts and voices raise
In laud and jubilee and praise.
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!