Saturday, July 27, 2024

1 Peter 4:7-11

The end of all things is near. Therefore, be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.  Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.  Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.  If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen. 1 Peter 4:7-11 (NIV)

Many passages from the Bible take a while to get to the point, and sometimes leave the reader searching for the point the writer was making. While leaving the point of the text open to interpretation at times may be a good thing, it often has the opposite effect. This passage, however, does exactly the opposite. In its seven- and one-half lines, it gets directly to the point (four of them actually) and leaves little room for misinterpretation. In fact, its point is so clear, some would refer to it as “crystal”.

Often in today’s world things are not clear and concise. What we see and hear and experience is confusing. The direction and guidance we receive from our leaders and peers is inconsistent and open to interpretation. Their actions and words are often not the same. That is precisely what makes today’s passage so refreshing. “Love each other deeply. Offer hospitality to one another. Use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace.” And “If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God.”  As followers of Christ, our mission in life is as basic, direct, and clear as the words in this passage. There is no room for misinterpretation. And the direction comes straight from God.

God’s word can’t get much clearer. Love deeply. Offer hospitality. Serve others. From my perspective, that’s as close to “crystal” as you can get.

Thanks be to God!

Questions for Reflection:

• Do you find some passages in the Bible confusing and open to interpretation?

• When you find a clear and concise passage, does it feel refreshing and fill you with the Holy Spirit?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, please help us to look to you for the guidance, inspiration, love and hope that we seek. Help us as well to truly appreciate your gifts of love, grace and your Son Jesus. In Jesus' name we pray, amen.

GraceLove