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. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. 1 Peter 2:9-10 NIV
I've learned a few things in working with our neighbors without homes over the last several years. For example, when you're transient, it means carrying your possessions. You may find a temporary spot to stow your things, but there's a good chance they'll be taken. You try your best to have your important papers with you, but even then, things happen. Of course, the longer you are in this situation, the greater the opportunity to lose those pieces of paper proving you are who you are–a driver's license or state-issued ID. When this happens, having them replaced is a lengthy and painful process.
At times we might lose our spiritual identity. We are sure we had it. It's here somewhere. We have taken God's mercies for granted, forgetting to give him the praise, thinking we're doing okay. Then one day, we are surprised to find we've lost who we were–a chosen people called from the darkness.
Beloved, that's regrettable, but it's not the end. We can reclaim our identity, and it's neither a lengthy nor painful process. It's quite the opposite; it's immediate and joyful. We come humbly before Him with repentance, asking forgiveness, which He gives. We rededicate our identity as God’s special possession and royal priests.
Gracious and Merciful Father, thank you for claiming us as your chosen people. We confess we have, at times, misplaced our identity. We have forgotten we are your special possession. Forgive us; we pray, and help us to remember who we are and the mission we've been given as royal priests to bring your message of love, mercy, and light into the world. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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