Editorial January 5, 1929 Issue

"Unto a lively hope"

Albert F. Gilmore

The irrepressible Peter was little inclined to dwell upon the dark experiences of human existence. Rather, he turned away from the threats and machinations of the so-called human mind to find complete comfort in his understanding of God's forever presence and unchanging goodness. In his first general letter, he voices his gratitude to God, who, he declares, "according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead." In these words Peter recognizes the significance of the Master's demonstration over the claims of death as examplified in the crucifixion and resurrection.

What could more surely inspire a "lively hope," a positive faith in every mortal, than the firm conviction of the nothingness of the experience termed death, of the continuity of life, even of individual identity.

In the verses following these words Peter foresees Jesus' demonstration as perfect assurance of eternal Life for all who accept his teachings. Moreover, he pictures a rich inheritance prepared and waiting for all who shall accept and obey the Master's precepts, and take the right means of gaining possession of it. The legacy is ready, but there are steps to be taken. When a rich inheritance of worldly goods in the form of a bequest awaits one, there is necessary procedure to be observed before one rightfully possesses it. Steps must be taken in the orderly fashion prescribed by law and custom; none are omitted. No less must the necessary steps be taken to gain that incomparable heritage which belongs to all the sons of God, a heritage so rich and so blessed that mortals do not at all grasp its importance.

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