Fourth Sunday of Easter

1 Peter 2:21-25; Psalm 23; John 10:11-17

This is the kind of life you’ve been invited into, the kind of life Christ lived. He suffered everything that came his way so you would know that it could be done, and also know how to do it, step-by-step. He never did one thing wrong, Not once said anything amiss. They called him every name in the book and he said nothing back. He suffered in silence, content to let God set things right. He used his servant body to carry our sins to the Cross so we could be rid of sin, free to live the right way. His wounds became your healing. You were lost sheep with no idea who you were or where you were going. Now you’re named and kept for good by the Shepherd of your souls. 1 Peter 2: 21-25 (MSG)

How does one respond to such Beauty, to the One broken and poured out for our dead souls; the lamb slain for our lost sheepness, who is the Lord, my Shepherd who quiets and restores and leads, all to display the Glory of Grace.

Blessedly, gratefully, there is Liz Vice, a music artist that expresses the song of response inside me. Her sound is said to be a fusion of gospel and R&B with dynamic and soulful vocals and lyrics, deeply rooted in her spirituality. May you also connect souls through her song, “Empty Me Out.”

Lyrics: Empty me out. Fill me with You LORD. There is nothing I can give to You. I lay down my life Here at Your feet. You give Me life so completely.. I died with You Was buried with You The moment I Believed I rose with You Ascended with You Into the Heavenlies.. LORD, it’s not me . It’s You inside of me Jesus, You are all these eyes can see.. “Empty Me Out” lyrics, Liz Vice.

PRAYER: Take some time for personal pray in response to the readings and music.

Liz says, “Empty Me Out means that you’re vulnerable. It’s about giving up that control to wherever life (or the Shepherd) is leading.” Jesus said, “For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life that I may take it up again.” (John 10:17)