Artwork by Jessica T.
2 Peter 3: 8-15
by Dan Stevens
Our Scripture for today comes from 2 Peter, a letter written to warn second century Christians against accepting the leadership of some in the early church who professed to be Christians but were not following the teachings of Jesus. The writer especially challenges the claim of these false Christian leaders that Christ will not return to earth again as he promised. Instead the passage advises true Christians to wait for Christ’s return doing their best to be “faultless in God’s sight and to be at peace with him.”
Advent has drawn to a close. I hope that again this year you experienced the return of Christ in your life through the celebration of his birth. Perhaps, for you Christmas passed without your feeling all of its wonder and fulfillment. Distractions like project deadlines, tough economic conditions, having to care for others, illness, and loss sometimes keep our lives so occupied that time does not permit room for the contemplation of God’s gifts.
If this describes in part your Christmas, our Scripture for today may be a reminder of God’s patience and how he tracks time in a different way. No matter what the calendar may say, there is still time, if you will find it, to experience God’s grace and feel the peace which can be realized by the coming again into your life of his Son, Jesus, the Prince of Peace.
Prayer: Our Father, help us to remember that you are always near and ready to share your love and grace through the presence of your Son, Jesus Christ, who comes to visit us again and again. Amen.