TODAY IN THE WORD
For months, workers dressed in overalls disappeared into a screened-off area in downtown Chicago. The whirling sounds of metal buffers could be heard by passers-by. Finally, with much fanfare, the partitions were removed and a 110-ton elliptical sculpture of highly polished stainless steel reflected the famous Chicago skyline and the sky above. British artist Anish Kapoor's large outdoor piece of public art, “Cloud Gate,” attracts millions, who delight in seeing their faces reflected back against the backdrop of towering skyscrapers.

Yesterday we considered the terrifying destiny that awaits those who persist in rejecting the gospel and the splendid image of the Lord's holy people glorifying Him because of their faith in the testimony about Jesus. Today's passage fills out this glorious image. Just as tourists see themselves reflected against the cityscape behind them, so we as believers will see our transformed lives reflected back against the background of God's faithfulness.

The starting point of our eternal destiny is God's calling. As we noted earlier (see Sept. 2), some misconstrue this doctrine as unfair. But today's reading from 1 Peter reveals how each member of the Trinity participates in the process. First, believers have been chosen in accordance with God's knowledge of all things, even before time began. Knowledge here goes beyond facts; it indicates that God has known us personally before we were created. Second, God's calling happens by means of the Spirit's sanctifying work. Thankfully, we don't stay the way we were when we were saved! The indwelling Spirit is constantly transforming us into the image of Christ, as we continue to yield to Him. Finally, we are chosen for obedience. We can't earn salvation by any of our own good deeds. Rather, God extends grace and mercy to us so that He might fulfill His good purposes in us (Eph. 2:8-10; 2 Thess. 1:11). When God's salvation is manifested through our obedience, the name of Jesus Christ is glorified in us and we reflect Him.

---

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Part of the Westminster Shorter Catechism states that “the chief end” of humanity is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever. In other words, what satisfies the very deepest longing of every human being is to bring glory to God. Given the cultural emphasis on finding our self-worth in appearance, education, or income, this truth is very freeing. Take some time to contemplate what it means to have been chosen for God's good purposes. Pray for a deeper understanding of what it means to glorify God in your own life.

< Previous Day

Next Day >