The Father whispers to his Son. The Son looks at us and whispers back. Then the Father motions to us, "Come up here." He means it. He meant it when he said to a crucified criminal, "Today, you'll be with me in paradise." He meant it when he said about that tax collector, "This man went home justified." He means it when he addresses you. "I baptized you in my name." "This is my body given for you." "I forgive you." He lifts you up. Whoever you are, whatever you have, wherever you go, because of Christ you have this hope. If now you're sitting in the lowest seat, the most painful seat, the worst seat, remember the future, "You will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous."

Sermon preached by Pr. Benjamin Tomczak (Bethel Lutheran Church and School, Sioux Falls, SD).