Reading: 1 Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11

Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that is taking place among you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you are sharing Christ’s sufferings, so that you may also be glad and shout for joy when his glory is revealed. If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the spirit of glory, which is the Spirit of God, is resting on you. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, so that he may exalt you in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you.

Discipline yourselves, keep alert. Like a roaring lion your adversary the devil prowls around, looking for someone to devour. Resist him, steadfast in your faith, for you know that your brothers and sisters in all the world are undergoing the same kinds of suffering.

And after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, support, strengthen, and establish you. To him be the power forever and ever. Amen.

Reflection

There’s a lot of noise in the world today. Like roaring lions. Unhappy people…debating, criticizing, arguing. Noise that prowls and devours.

I read a saying recently: A wise person once said…NOTHING. There might be a slight twinkle in the eye or eyes closed deep in thought. Thinking what? Maybe if we wait quietly and listen patiently, we will find out. Maybe in a way we will be shown…through humble, gentle, kind actions. Is this not how God best speaks to us? How we best speak to others?

Then be glad and shout for joy revealing God’s glory! Make some noise about that.

–Alice Yeakel

Prayer

Dear God, we cast our anxiety on you for you care about us. Keep us alert to resist the noise that would consume us. Instead, may we know your spirit resting in us and then shout for joy in your glory.

Amen.