Readings for Lent and Easter

The Coming Glory

¹⁸ For I consider the sufferings of this present time not worthy to be compared with the coming glory to be revealed to us. ¹⁹ For the creation eagerly awaits the revelation of the sons of God. ²⁰ For the creation was subjected to futility^[a]—not willingly but because of the One who subjected it^[b]—in hope ²¹ that the creation itself also will be set free from bondage to decay into the glorious freedom of the children of God. ²² For we know that the whole creation groans together and suffers birth pains until now— ²³ and not only creation, but even ourselves. We ourselves, who have the firstfruits^[c] of the Ruach, groan inwardly as we eagerly wait for adoption—the redemption of our body.

²⁴ For in hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? ²⁵ But if we hope for what we do not see, then we eagerly wait for it with perseverance.