National pride

You are a chosen generation . . . a holy nation . . . that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness.      — 1 Peter 2:9

My wife, Martie, and I have grown to love England — its history, culture, and people. One of our favorite activities when we visit is going to outdoor concerts (also known as proms) on the sloping lawns of ancient estates. “The Last Night of the Proms” event is the best, with fireworks and hundreds of nationals waving little British flags to rousing patriotic tunes.

We loved joining the celebration — until the summer our children came with us. When we started waving our flags with all the enthusiastic Brits, our kids were aghast. I can still hear them shouting over the music, “What are you doing?! You’re Americans!”

God must often feel like that when we blend in and live like the “locals” around us. I can almost hear Him saying, “What are you doing living like that?! You belong to My nation!”

Peter reminds us that we are different from the locals — we are a “holy nation” (1 Peter 2:9). Being holy means that we are unique, set apart for Jesus, becoming like Him, and reflecting His countercultural ways of living. It means that we are forgiving in the face of cruel offenses, and merciful, gracious, truthful and loyal to our promises. It means being just like Him.

So let’s start waving the flag of holiness as members of the “Jesus nation”!                                               — Joe Stowell

O child of God, guard well your life

From anything that stains the heart;

Forsake those things that soil the mind —

Your Father wants you set apart. — Fasick

READ: 1 Peter 2:9-17

Our loyalty to Jesus should be seen and heard in our lives.

The Bible in one year:

• Ezekiel 11-13

• James 1