This is my 12th year in a row preaching Easter sermons.  I’ve preached on the resurrection story from each of the Gospels, except for Mark, because, well, that’s just a strange one.  I’ve preached on the wonderful resurrection chapter, 1st Corinthians 15.  One year I preached on Psalm 103, which seems like it was written for Easter (though it wasn’t). As I thought about the significance of Jesus’ resurrection, I decided to preach Romans 8, which is usually considered to be a Holy Spirit chapter.  It is that.  But it is so much more.

Let me back up a minute and talk about Romans.  Romans is one of the most revered and substantive books of the Bible, and for good reason. Through Romans we learn the importance of the theology of God’s grace.  Do a search on the blog, though, and you’ll find I have rarely written about Romans.  I suspect the reason for that has to do with the fact that Romans is quite complex.  That said, open up your Bible and read Romans 8 ahead this weekend.  I think you’ll find it to be familiar, and quite encouraging, especially about the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.  As you listen to this sermon about Romans 8, notice how Paul talks about the resurrection.  I hope you'll find hope if you're feeling the pain and loss of separation.