1 Peter 1:13-21 (NIV)
13 Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming. 14 As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. 15 But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; 16 for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.”
17 Since you call on a Father who judges each person’s work impartially, live out your time as foreigners here in reverent fear. 18 For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. 20 He was chosen before the creation of the world, but was revealed in these last times for your sake. 21 Through him you believe in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him, and so your faith and hope are in God.
Reflection:
Having experienced this wonderful blessing of salvation, the Apostle Peter encourages us with this challenge- the promises of God and the hope that we now possess should motivate us to live a life that is holy. It is in this same hope we are to live with eager anticipation of Christ’s return. What does a life motivated by this hope look like? Well, in this passage Peter provides us with some insight:
-Preparing our minds to be ready for action at God’s prompting
-Disciplined and self-controlled lives that are not easily enticed away by the temptations of this world
-Holding on to a true hope with a confident expectation of what God has promised in light of Christ’s return.
-Living holy lives that are totally devoted and dedicated to God, set apart to be used by Him.
Yes, we are called to live extraordinary lives, reflecting this salvation and hope, which was graciously given to each one of us!
Responding to the Transmission:
Living holy lives, separated out for the Lord’s service, can be difficult in today’s world. It’s especially tough trying to live this out with our own strength, but because of the Spirit of God in each one of us this is now possible. Read over and pray through this passage asking for the Spirit’s empowering to live this out.
