1 Peter 2:18-21

Slaves, in reverent fear of God submit yourselves to your masters, not only to those who are good and considerate, but also to those who are harsh. For it is commendable if someone bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because they are conscious of God. But how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing wrong and endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps. – 1 Peter 2:18-21

Dear Jesus,
I am not a slave, but I have a job.  I have not been beaten, but I have suffered injustices in my life.  I love how your words from Peter push me back to you and make me think about how you lived your perfect life as you suffered at the hands of selfish men.  You loved those who hurt you just like you loved those who helped you.  You showed no distinction. I need you to fill me with yourself so I can serve people indiscriminately, too.  Help me to understand my role when I suffer so I redeem the moments and make them a testimony of grace and love.  Make me a person who overcomes evil with good by loving those who hurt me as much as I do anyone else.  

AMEN

Pastor Don Patterson

Christ wants us to rise above celebrating his life to living it again in our own.