31 Jan - 1 Peter 2

Today’s reading is 1 Peter 2. Check these points out:

1. There is much talk of rocks in this chapter isn’t there? The Bible uses metaphors frequently and this is an example. “The living Stone” or the “Cornerstone” is referring to Jesus and is pictured as the foundation of a house. People who choose to follow Jesus are called “living stones” that are being built into a “spiritual house.” I know it sounds weird but it’s a good way for us to picture spiritual things.
2. Peter also says that Jesus is “a stone that causes me to stumble.” He is saying that for many it’s difficult hard to believe and follow Jesus and so they will choose not to. The thing is that there is lots of evidence to support what the Bible says.
3. People who follow Jesus are called “a royal priesthood,” “people belonging to God” and we are told to live as “free men.” A lot of people who are skeptical of the Bible think it’s just God’s way of giving us rules to follow. The truth is Jesus said he came to earth to teach us how to live free. God isn’t interested in slaves he wants free men and women to follow him.
4. We are also warned that those who follow Jesus will suffer but we are to “suffer for doing good.” 

Often we hear our friends and family members say that they would love to serve others but they are just too busy or its too difficult. Perhaps we have even made statements like these ourselves. Peter tells us that serving is what we are called to. Peter says to “live such good lives” among people who do not follow God that “they may see your good deeds and glorify God.” This is exactly why Tattoo Church constantly urges everyone to take care of each other. We try come up with new ways to show people love. 

Who have you showed love to lately? Would those closest to you say that you live a life characterized by loving others? What is one way you could show love to someone this week? Want to get really crazy? Find a way to show love to someone you wouldn’t normally even talk to. Something like: Bake cookies for your garbage man? Visit someone in the hospital (that you don’t know)? Give away a certain amount of money? Tip the dishwasher? Give a phone card to the homeless?