Holiness #7—Holy Identity

You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who has called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. 1 Peter 2:9

Contrary to modern American culture, which says, “What I do defines who I am,” Peter teaches us, “Who I am drives what I do.” In other words, “Calling governs conduct.” Peter would probably tell us from his experience that this is not an easy lesson to learn. But we must learn it if we are to live successfully as citizens of Christ’s kingdom. If we are Christ’s, we are sacred to God because we have been called and converted to a special purpose, namely to proclaim his holiness: the infinite, unexcelled, and irreplaceable worth he has displayed in the panoply of creation. Because he has drawn us to himself and made us valuable to him, we are now obligated to pursue our occupations in a way that conforms to our identity. For example, if we are doctor-Christians, we must work to heal people not as an end in itself, but as a means: to make them better able to pursue their experience of, and testimony to, God’s holiness. If we are teacher-Christians, we must work to create an appreciation for our subject because it reveals some specific aspect of God’s excellence. If we work in the service economy, we must seek to reflect the joy of the One who “works for those who wait for him.”

Most Excellent God, how marvelous is the life you give to me! Thank you for opening my eyes to your glorious goodness through Jesus Christ. Make me bold to proclaim the truth of your holiness in my life today.