Restored for a Purpose
Today’s readings tell a powerful story of transformation, restoration,
and calling.
God meets people not when they are perfect, but when they are broken, running,
doubting, and even persecuting — and He calls them to new life and new
mission.
The resurrection of Christ
doesn’t just give us hope — it reshapes our lives.
Encountering the Risen Lord
(Acts 9:1-20)
Saul's Dramatic Turnaround
- Saul, breathing threats against the early church,
thought he was doing God’s work.
- On the road to Damascus, Jesus confronts him: “Saul,
Saul, why do you persecute me?”
- In an instant, Saul’s entire world is turned upside
down. Blind. Helpless. Dependent.
Key Truths:
- God reaches us even at our worst.
- Repentance is surrender. Saul had to be led
by the hand — a powerful picture of humbling.
- Transformation comes through encountering Jesus
personally, not just by hearing about Him.
Application:
Are there areas in your life where you still resist surrender? Jesus wants not
part of you but all of you.
The Song of Heaven (Revelation
5:11-14)
The Lamb Is Worthy
- John sees a vision of countless angels and living
creatures praising the Lamb.
- They sing:
“Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing!”
Key Truths:
- Jesus is not only risen — He is glorified!
- Heaven constantly declares His worthiness.
- Our worship today is a small echo of heaven’s
mighty chorus.
Application:
Is your life a daily song of gratitude to the Lamb who saved you?
Restoration and Commissioning
(John 21:1-19)
Peter’s Redemption
- Peter had denied Jesus three times.
- After the resurrection, Peter goes back to fishing
— his old life — perhaps thinking he had disqualified himself.
- Jesus meets Peter on the shore, cooks him
breakfast, and then asks him three times:
“Do you love me?”
Each time, Peter responds, and Jesus restores him: “Feed
my sheep.”
Key Truths:
- Jesus restores, not condemns.
- Failure is not the end — it’s the beginning when
surrendered to Christ.
- Peter, once broken, becomes the rock upon which the
church would be built.
Application:
Are you carrying guilt or shame? Jesus doesn’t just forgive — He restores
and recommissions you for His work.
Our Response: Singing a New
Song (Psalm 30)
From Mourning to Dancing
- The psalmist sings:
“You turned my mourning into
dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy.” (v.11)
- Psalm 30 reminds us that God's mercy rewrites
our stories.
- Weeping may stay for a night, but joy comes in
the morning.
Application:
No matter how dark your night has been, the dawn is coming.
The resurrection proves that God always has the final word — and it is life.
Conclusion:
Dear friends, Today we are reminded:
- Like Saul, we are transformed when we meet
the Risen Lord.
- Like Peter, we are forgiven and called to
serve again.
- Like the angels, we are invited to lift up
worship to the Worthy Lamb.
- Like the psalmist, we are called to dance in
the new life God gives.
Wherever you are today —
broken, weary, ashamed, or doubting — come to Jesus.
He restores, He calls, and He sends you out in His power!
Prayer:
“Lord Jesus, You are worthy of
all our worship.
Thank You for finding us when we are lost, for lifting us up when we fall.
Restore us, transform us, and send us into the world as witnesses to Your life,
Your love, and Your victory.
In Your holy name we pray, Amen.”
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