I almost feel insufficient to even read, much less relate to his circumstance. As he wrote this letter, the infamous Nero was instigating some of the most heinous government persecutions in the history of Christendom. A brief history lesson, Nero came to see deadly torture of Christians as a game--wild dogs hunting and brutally killing men who had been covered with a dead animal carcass; men nailed to crosses then set aflame, even used as lanterns when the sun had set. It was the beginnings of this kind of suffering for the name of Christ that set the stage for Peter's words.
And he instructs, "when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God. For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example...who, when He was reviled, did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously." (1 Peter 2:20b-23) Peter would be martyred for his faith later that year, crucified upside down, as tradition says he did not feel worthy to die in the same manner as his Lord.
As his death was drawing near, Peter beseeches the reader to love fervently, obey wholeheartedly, and submit willingly to the will of the Father. This remains our challenge today. Though we as Americans comprehend little of physical persecution for our faith, we will suffer. And it may even be for our faith as persecution from the spiritual realm (see the book of Job on that one!). But in Christ, in setting our eyes upon that which is incorruptible, we are given the power and strength to rise above. Keep preaching His truth to your spirit, friend. He cares for you.
1 comment:
wow...that was thought-provoking for sure. i feel a bit smarter every time i read your blog ;) smarter about the stuff that really matters...i thank my god for you, girl!
Post a Comment