You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession. . . .

— 1 Peter 2:9

Remembering that priests and prophets and kings were anointed as confirmation of their special callings, we need to take our calling as God’s sheep seriously. The apostle Peter points out the high calling that is on our lives as “the people of God.” We are “a chosen people, a royal priesthood, . . . God’s special possession.” Called to kingly and queenly service, we are to lead in the same manner as the great high King, the Lord Almighty. We are to radiate God’s excellent attributes to the world through our leadership as parents, in our workplaces, in our communities, and everywhere else.

As priests, we are called to pray for a broken world, bringing that brokenness to the one who can heal. Priests also represent God to the world and invite people who don’t recognize the shepherd to gain a glimpse of his love and mercy in our own lives.

Peter also uses the word holy, meaning that we are set apart for this valuable work for the sake of the Lord’s lost sheep. Our purpose in all of this is to share with others the good news and the great works of the Lord who has called us “out of darkness into his wonderful light.” Each one of us is a living picture of the shepherd’s mercy and grace, equipped to invite others to the best way to live.

What is one concrete way in which you can live into your high calling today?

Lord, help us to radiate your goodness in the world. By our words and actions may we reflect the light of your love. Amen.