Resilient: Powerful Hope in a Dangerous WorldSample

I love when people get what they deserve. As a child, nothing would wind me up faster than getting punished for something I didn’t do… or, more likely, for something my sister started. I would pace back and forth in my room, talking it out with myself in tears to try to make sense of my unjust punishment. Even now, when someone is riding my bumper, then switches lanes and speeds off, I secretly hope that there happens to be a police officer up ahead.

Do you want to be like Jesus? Like, really be like Jesus? You will have to suffer unjustly. Peter says, “For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps” in verse 21.

Peter had a front-row seat to the sufferings of Jesus. He was there as a witness. And do you remember how he responded? He denied Jesus. He avoided suffering alongside Jesus. He rejected the example Jesus was providing. So now, with this painful regret ingrained in his mind, he urges the believers not to miss out on this command.

The crucifixion was far more than an example Jesus set for us to follow. By the cross, we are saved from our just punishment of death. By the blood of Jesus, we are justified for no reason other than that we are loved. This love isn’t earned or deserved but freely given. When a love like this is accepted, there must be a response. This love changes everything!

In the face of a love like this, what suffering can compare? What unjust punishment can taint the unjust sacrifice given on our behalf? So what a joy it is to suffer for the One who loved us like this.

Reflection Questions

1. What unfair treatment can you surrender to Jesus?
2. Do you believe that God is just? Why or why not?
3. What could your response to the love of Jesus be today?