A Holy Nation

“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession”

As much as it pleases me to think that I am special, that my country is special, or that I have earned blessings, this is not why I am part of a holy nation.  The holy nation Peter speaks of is the nation of people who have chosen to submit themselves to a higher authority, a spiritual authority.

“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”

I belong to the Holy One, and he is my primary allegiance.  He has rescued me from selfishness, and shame, and desire for recognition and wealth and freedom. I am honored to stand in his light.  It purifies me, and cleanses both my shame and my pride. I am honored to shout, “Great is the Lord!  Great are his blessings!” And I am honored to stand beside those who have also chosen this holy nation, who also shout.

“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.”

Today my country celebrates its origins, its birth. Because I was born in this nation, I have freedom and material wealth and safety that many do not have.  I am profoundly grateful for the blessings that my government makes possible.  But I count myself first of all part of the holy nation formed by allegiance to Jesus Christ. And I welcome those who join me in this nation – from all countries, from all political parties, from all cultures.  Together, we acknowledge that we were in darkness, but we have received mercy, and we give all honor to Him who alone deserves it.  We belong to God above all.

I Peter 2:9-10, TNIV