My Identity in Christنمونه

Priest and king

But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people whom God made His own; that you might proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvellous light (1 Peter 2:9).

The list goes on: apart from being creatures of God, a new creation in Christ, adopted as His children, part of God's worldwide family and dwelling place of the Holy Spirit, we are also a royal priesthood, a chosen generation, and a holy nation. Peter is quoting Exodus 19:6 with this. This was originally Israel's calling. Still Israel has a unique place among the nations. But since Jesus' sacrifice, all followers of Jesus are included in this 'royal priesthood' (Ephesians 2:11-22).

God is King over heaven and earth and therefore His children are also of royal blood. Christ is High Priest - He reconciles people to God - and therefore His followers are also priests. We represent God to those around us. We tell them of God's great deeds. At the same time, we bring them before the face of God in our prayers (Psalm 141:2, Revelation 5:8). We plead for their salvation.

What meaning and significance does God gives to the existence of those who follow Him? What an honourable place He gives us! How often do we derive our identity from what we accomplish? Now suppose illness or whatever prevents us from doing anything - are we worth nothing? We can still fulfil our vocation and bear witness to God's great deeds and advocate for those around us.

How can you be a priest in your environment?