Advent devotional
December 13, 2004
II Peter 1:1-11
“Making One’s Calling & Election Sure” is the caption for these verses in my NIV Bible. The only thing that comes to mind when I see the word “election” is our election that occurred 48 hours ago—November 2nd, 2004. 48 hours post election; 24 hours post my candidate’s (and 55 million other Americans) concession speech. It’s been a traumatic, depressing and discouraging 24 hours. But, the sun still came up today—after 2 days of torrential rains. Most of the neighborhood election signs are down; I have called a neighbor from the “other” side to congratulate him—we had previously exchanged some not-so-neighborly comments, and I feel much better.
So what does this have to do with the Apostle Peter’s admonition to the early church and now to us who are followers of Christ? He says that because of God’s living power through his Son, we have everything we need to live lives of “faith, goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness and love.” If we just try to love others whether or not we agree, if we show kindness to our neighbor, classmate, fellow traveler, and if we exercise perseverance, self control and godliness, Peter says: “you can never fail, and you will receive a rich welcome in to the eternal Kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (2 Peter 1:10-11). Our election is secure. In this advent season, let us love one another and even those with whom we might disagree.
Dear Lord, As we celebrate your birth into this world which you created, may we remember the reason you came down---to love, lead and secure for us an eternal home with you forever. Amen
Susan Rochat
November 4, 2004