Thursday 26th December
Read 1 Peter 1:1-2
“Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ,
To God’s elect, exiles, scattered throughout the provinces of Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia, 2 who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to be obedient to Jesus Christ and sprinkled with his blood:
Grace and peace be yours in abundance.” (NIVUK)
Peter has come a long way from the headstrong follower of Jesus, hasty in his judgements and greatly lacking in patience. Thirty years on he has matured in Jesus into a gracious, wise and patient shepherd of God’s people. In that capacity, during the reign of Nero, he sent this letter to encourage the faithful and give them hope.
Amidst persecution Jesus’ followers might lose heart. Peter speaks comfort and truth to them. He does not shy away from reality. He addresses them as they truly are – exiles, scattered far and wide. One imagines an underground church clinging on against all odds.
Yet if that honesty is to be believed, he would have them listen to his next words just as closely. If they are exiles, they have also been chosen. They are bound up in the love of the Godhead itself, Father, Spirit and Son. That status is just as important, in fact more so. For out of that status they can boldly claim the grace and peace bestowed upon them by God before time.
Imagine receiving that letter! What will come next?
