1 PETER 2:9

But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.

TO PONDER

I can't imagine how many times I have read this verse over the years. However, in reading it for today's devotion, something struck me for the first time. Yes, it is true that we are God's chosen people, that we are set apart as his holy nation and a priesthood of all believers acting as intermediaries between God and those who do not yet know Him. But God has called us and chose us and is forming us and equipping us for a purpose... That we may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light.

Being part of a holy nation, a royal priesthood, being God's chosen people is not about simply sitting in a favoured and priveledged position. It is about being free and able to proclaim Gods goodness and declare his praise. This is the purpose of the church (the people, not the building or institution). It's not to build awe inspiriting buildings and cathedrals in which we can gather privately. It's not about employing a large staff of various ministry professionals to run fancy outreach and evangelism programs. It's not about the style of worship music or the liturgical forms you use on a Sunday morning. It is simply about declaring the praises of the God who created and redeemed you out of darkness to live in his wonderful light to anyone who will listen.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, I pray that you will help me today to see all the ways you are at work in me, through me, and around me so that I may point it out to others and proclaim your goodness and mercy to all who have ears to hear. Amen

Today's devotion written by Mathew von Stanke, LifeWay Newcastle