Devotional: A Royal Community

A Royal Community

1 Peter 2:9-12

All people who are in the “Body of Christ” are special. In the world some of us are considered to be important. Some of us are considered to be almost nothing. Most of us the world never takes much notice of us. We are just ordinary people, living an ordinary life. In Peter’s letter to Gentile Christians he tells them that they are not ordinary people. Regardless to their background or their present socio-economic status, God has called them to a royal community. Peter offers several descriptions of the people who make up this royal community. “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people.” God chose us for a purpose: “In order that you may proclaim the mighty acts of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light” (v. 9, NRSV). In verse 10-12 Peter reminds us of our former state before God chose us to be a part of His spiritual house (v. 5). As members of God’s royal community we are expected to live excellent moral lives so that others may see our excellent deeds and glorify God.

Lord we thank you for choosing us to be members in your holy nation. Grant that we may live as royal priest in your service so that the world will glorify your name. Amen!