Devotion:
Read 1 Peter 2:9-10.
Peter wrote this to first-century Christians in churches spread out across the Roman Empire, addressing it to “exiles scattered throughout the provinces…” They were exiles because of their faith in Christ, subject to persecution and even death. There was only a loose connection between the churches of that time, as bishops led churches in each major population center and communicated with one another in an attempt to keep doctrine and practices true to Christ’s teachings. Centered in Rome, Peter was viewed as the head of all bishops. This passage invited believers in all places to feel connected as a people, a nation.
In some ways in our country today, we are driven by a sense of rugged individualism. We seek to be independent from an early age and then to achieve and accomplish things as individuals. But most of us also long to belong to something larger than us. This passage reminds us that we belong to the larger church and that we are part of a priesthood of believers. Let’s not miss the point of that — priests are bridges between people and God, so all of us are called to reach out and bring others into our circle as people of God.
Personal Worship Option:
Almighty God, help me to remember that I am joined as a people with all Christians in all denominations and in all parts of the world. Thank you for that privilege. Help me to live out my responsibility as a member of this royal priesthood. Amen!
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