When a soldier dies, we often see tears well up in the eyes of comrades as they carry their friend's casket or think of their friend, who may have died at their side and in their place. It's sobering when you know someone died for you. The Bible says, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends” (John 15:13). It prompts us to ask ourselves the question, “Am I worth it? Has the sacrifice been in vain?” In essence, another owns us because the price paid for our life was an extreme price.

The Apostle Peter uses that very thought to sober his congregation and inspire them to make their lives count for something in the sight of God. “For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect” (1 Peter 1:18-19). Peter urged them to live as people who were on their way home to meet their real family of loved ones whose special family trait is purity.

As we reflect on our Saviour's sacrifice for us this Easter season, ponder these questions: Am I a good person? What does my life stand for? Am I leaving a legacy of purity for my loved ones? Will I be ashamed on that day when I meet my real family in Glory? Lord, by your Grace!

Major Bill Kean is the corps officer in beautiful Triton, NL. His weekly coffee doodles complement his passion for preaching and teaching.