Matthew 5:14 tells us that we are the light of the world and that a city on a hill cannot be hidden.
As I read 1 Peter 3:13-16 this morning, I thought about how it fits so easily with Matthew 5:14. As the world gets darker, we are going to become much more noticeable. That is going to bring both good attention, and attention that is not so good. Peter addresses both:
“And who will harm you if you are deeply committed to what is good? But even if you should suffer for righteousness, you are blessed. Do not fear what they fear or be disturbed, but honor the Messiah as Lord in your hearts. Always be ready to give a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you. However, do this with gentleness and respect, keeping your conscience clear, so that when you are accused, those who denounce your Christian life will be put to shame.” [HCSB]
Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? Who indeed. I think that must have been a rhetorical question because Peter was certainly aware, even a recipient of harm from others after doing good. As Peter noted, however, there is a blessing that comes when we suffer for doing what is right. We must not be afraid to step up.
I saw a YouTube video of a minister who was in a Kroeger’s in Cincinnati paying for people’s groceries as an outreach. Those who received this blessing were amazed and thankful, and when they asked why, the minister simply said, “God is good.”
Yet many comments on the YouTube page about the video were vicious. The language was foul and shocking. People were enraged that a Christian was trying to bless people in the community.
Peter would not have been surprised. We should not be surprised either. Suffering for doing what is right is not new but is certainly becoming more acceptable in our society.
