1 Peter 2:21 To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.
It is astonishing that Peter states that his readers were called to suffer. This applies to all believers, but it goes deeper that verse 20. The deeper thought here is that our calling is to faithfulness to God at all costs, even to the point of suffering. That is what Christ did. He did not suffer simply as a martyr for a cause but he suffered for his obedience, even to the point of death. As we read about the episode in the Garden of Gethsemane in Matthew 26, Jesus remained faithful to the call to take up his cross even though he knew that drinking from this this cup would mean his death.
What can motivate someone to give up his life like this? It can only be love. Jesus loved the Father one hundred percent. This love for his heavenly Father filled his life. He also love humanity, because the Triune God is love (1 John 4:8). We should and must follow in his footsteps. This will require 1) that our hearts love God and others with no conditions, and 2) that we take up our crosses in faith and follow after Jesus’ example. The only way this is even possible will be with the help of the Holy Spirit. Only through total commitment that grows and is reconfirmed daily can we find this victory. There may be days when we feel like taking the easy road that the majority follow. That is our battle in this life. It is one that is not easily won, but God gives us tools to help: the fellowship of the church, the objects of worship (sacraments, music, preaching), and the Holy Spirit who speaks and guides our conscience.
For older posts, click here.