There seems to be a fundamental equation that exists for the Christian believer. On one end of the equation we have an exceedingly loving and just God whom despite our best efforts to mess with his plans overcame sin through his Son and redeemed us so that we can be called children of God. On the other end of the equation is our effort to respond to the love and mercy that we have received and live our lives in such a way that God is honored. This Divine intrusion and response is a pattern we see a lot in scripture. In our passage this week, we see phrases like....
"You are a chosen people"
"Royal priesthood"
"Holy Nation"
"People belonging to God"
"People brought into his wonderful light"
"People who have now received mercy"
These Phrases represent what God has done for his us, phrase that form our story. Phrases that reflect the activity of God. Then we see the second part...our part!
"Dear Friends"
"I urge you"
"To abstain from sinful desires"
"Live such good lives"
"See that your good deeds glorify God"
In Lent both of these elements are clearly in play. We recognize what God has done in our lives, where we have fallen short, that we have been redeemed and shown mercy, and now we are called to go out and live up to our new found identity.
How has God shown his mercy to you?
How has God impressed this pattern in your life?
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