Scripture
9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 10 Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.
Reflection
Peter is writing this epistle to newly converted Jews who not only experienced opposition from the existing Jewish community, but also during a time where the government of Rome persecuted Christians on a big scale. It is during such a time that Peter is writing to these newly Christians to remain strong in their faith. Since the readers are mainly newly converted Jews who hold the Old Testament in a very high regard, he uses Hosea 1:10 to affirm, encourage and to put their minds at ease that even the prophets in the OT was talking about the Messiah and the hope that rests within their salvation. He uses the OT scriptures to give them a sense of security that their persecution isn’t in vain but that even the prophets spoke of this Hope they have (Con).
Thoughts for the day
- Similarly that the OT gave a sense of security and hope to the newly converted Jews in times of trials and hardships, where do you turn to for your hope and security during hard times?
- Is there anyone in your circle of influence that places their hope and security in something other than Jesus?
- How can you apply this passage in your own life?
Prayer
Use a specific part of your daily commute as a prayer prompt. Perhaps you pass the same landmark or station every day; or maybe your journey involves a few different types of transport. Build a connection, so that when you reach a certain part of your journey, you’re prompted to pray for a certain situation or people.
