The responsive reading for 16 April 2023 was taken from I Peter 1:3-9 NRSV, I Peter 1: 13-16 NRSV, Psalm 148: 1-5 NRSV. Following is the corresponding commentary.

For our responsive reading this first Sunday after celebrating Christ’s resurrection, we stay with the theme of Jesus raised from the grave, and paying the price for our sins. The apostle Peter is writing to the believers that are under severe persecution in Cappadocia and other nearby cities in Turkey and Asia Minor. He is encouraging them to remain strong in their faith, looking forward to the reward of all followers of Jesus: eternity in heaven.

It is believed, he is writing to gentile believers who were in Jerusalem during Pentecost, and who became Christians during some of Peter’s sermons. In verse 1 (not a part of the responsive reading), Peter refers to the believers as temporary residents. Just like them we, as followers of Jesus; are temporary residents of earth while we await eternity in heaven.

Our true residence in heaven is being prepared for us by Jesus, as he promised in John 14:2-6. As his followers, Jesus promises to come again and receive us to himself; so that we can be with him in eternity. We cannot get there on our own by works, or anything else. Our ticket to heaven has been bought and paid for by our Suffering Messiah.

As believers in Jesus the Christ, with minds ready for action, we set our hope in his grace; and are to live lives that shine as examples of Jesus’s love and holiness. Putting away the sinful desires of the world, we are to live in holiness as Christ is holy.

As Christians, we must expect to be hated and persecuted by the world; which is controlled by Satan and his minions. All around us we can see attacks on our beliefs, and face ridicule from the unsaved. As this happens, we as examples of Christian love and perseverance; can pray for them asking God to work through us and His Holy Spirit, letting them see the “Light.” 

Personally, praying for those who hate me and the Savior I serve, sometimes seems a stretch. This I cannot do except with the leading and power of God’s Holy Spirit. 

Amid persecution and hate from those who do not believe as I do, I find some comfort and peace in that I am in good company. Just as Christ’s followers have been persecuted through the ages, I can join with them in their trials. 

Paraphrasing the apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 4:17, “This light momentary affliction, cannot compare to the eternal weight of glory, working within us”; brings comfort and joy in serving a risen savior, even in adverse times. Therefore, like the Psalmist, we finish our reading with praise for our God and heavenly Father, for His saving grace, paid for through Jesus the Christ.

May your day and this new week be filled with God’s blessings of peace, joy, and love…

© 2023 David Posival