Devotion by: Joni White
If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the spirit of glory, which is the Spirit of God, is resting on you. But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, a criminal, or even as a mischief-maker. Yet if any of you suffers as a Christian, do not consider it a disgrace, but glorify God because you bear this name. For the time has come for judgement to begin with the household of God; if it begins with us, what will be the end for those who do not obey the gospel of God? And
‘If it is hard for the righteous to be saved,
what will become of the ungodly and the sinners?’
Therefore, let those suffering in accordance with God’s will entrust themselves to a faithful Creator, while continuing to do good.
Today is Maundy Thursday, when Jesus so elegantly demonstrated servant leadership by washing his disciples’ feet. Today is also Beth Tozer’s 44th birthday. Beth loved all things elegant, whether it was Michael’s generous and considerate nature, the hillside view outside her windows, the furnishings she chose for their home, the sound of David’s British accent, or whenever technologies actually harmonized to make her work easier.
She enjoyed elegant writing, so I think she would appreciate today’s verses by Peter. The NIV translation for verse 16 reads, “However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.” This reading concludes with verse 19, “So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.”
Committing ourselves to God, to loved ones, to life goals, to core values—focusing our concentration and effort on such commitments creates elegant facets in our personal characters. At Beth’s funeral, her family and friends shared examples of her commitments to do good. The stories were lovingly recounted. They were inspiring demonstrations of Beth’s elegant character. Many made us laugh through our tears!
The strength of our commitments can carry us though hard times. It wasn’t until after Christ died that the apostles began to really understand what he had been preparing them for. Their commitment to Christ enabled them to build a worldwide religion, which blesses our lives today, some 2,000 years later. Our commitment to our faithful Creator continues to inspire us to do good, even as we work through the process of grief.
PRAYER: Jesus, may we do your will today and be a blessing. If we rely on your strong and powerful grace, we will easily fulfill our commitments. Happy birthday to your new angel, Beth! In praise to your holy name, Amen.
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