Today's Scripture: 1 Peter 4:7-11
"As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace"
Don't you enjoy birthdays and Christmas? Those times when you get a gift from friends and family? It's always nice to get something you've always wanted as a gift. Sometimes though, something that you wouldn't have thought of but turns out to be quite useful make the best gifts.
Today's passage teaches about the responsibility that comes with a gift you have been given by Jesus himself.
First, Peter reminds us that life is not infinite, and at the same time offers an encouragement. As we connect in community, we are encouraged to love one another with a resolute concentration. Neither the troubles of the times nor the return of Jesus should keep us from loving one another deeply with a fervent, earnest love.
It's the same love Jesus showed for us in his death and resurrection. This may be where you reset and connect in community in loving others the way Jesus loves you.
Next, remember that, as a believer and follower of Jesus, you have been given a gift. There is of course the gift of grace and faith in Jesus, but also a gift of service. That particular gift will be different for each, but we are all called to use it in serving one another. In doing so, you share the grace of God that you have been given as a gift.
Sometimes we need to begin afresh and anew in our service to others, not be served, as Jesus modeled (Matthew 20:28).
Last, serving others is not always easy. When we have been wronged by another, it's difficult to use your gift in service to that person. When fatigue or anger or bitterness sets in, it's not easy. When the guilt of sin leads to a hidden sense of shame, it's difficult.
But the Bible, the word of God, teaches that you can do so, not by your own strength, but by the strength of Jesus. You can serve others in the same strength and power that raised Jesus from the grave to give the gift of grace and the gift of a new life in him.
Connecting in community is serving together.
Think about it …
Do you experience Jesus' love for you the same way today as you did when you first came to know him?
Are you exercising your gift in service to Jesus and to others? If not, how might you do so?
Is there something you need to overcome by Jesus' strength so that you can more freely use your gift in service to others?
