What Kind of People Should We Be?

I remember as child approaching Christmas with a certain degree of cau- tion. While my belief in the source of my presents varied through the years (parents handle this how you want!), I was certain that my behavior in the weeks leading up to the big day would have an impact on gifts I would re- ceive. So while in November I might grumble and complain about washing the dishes or vacuuming the carpet, in December I was always, “Yes Ma’am” and eager to serve. My anticipation of the rewards impacted my behavior.

In 2 Peter 3 we are reminded of a reality that should impact every day, every moment, of our lives. Read verse 10 for a moment and let it sink in what Peter is telling us: “But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare.”

Whoa! We don’t know when the “day of the Lord” will happen but it will happen, and it will happen quickly and dramatically. That should impact how we live, as Peter very clearly shows in verse 11, “Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives…”

Lest we ponder the question in fear, Peter asks and answers the question immediately,“You ought to live holy and godly lives.” But notice, the ultimate reason he gives for us in this is not one of avoiding the fire and destruction coming, but because “…in keeping with his promise, we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells.”

There is a reward waiting for those that love and follow Jesus and yes, there is punishment and destruction coming for those who don’t. But living holy and godly lives in this world is not to earn us some reward or spare us from some punishment or destruction, Jesus has already done both those things for us! Instead, we are to consider this life an opportunity to prepare us to live in a new world full of righteousness. The abundant life Jesus promises us in the life is a taste of the glorious life we have waiting for us in the new heaven and the new earth. Let’s be the kind of people that live in anticipa- tion of the day of the Lord coming.

For reflection:

• Do you think it makes a difference if you live a holy life to avoid the destruction of that day or to because you’re looking forward to the new world full of righteousness? Why?
• What can help you keep the Day of the Lord in mind more often so that you can live more intentionally in response to it?

Nativity Building:

• Bring out the figures of sheep and shepherds and set them outside of the stable. These will be the first to hear that Jesus is born!