“Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tender-hearted, be courteous, not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing.” I Peter 3: 8-9
This passage is a lifeline to the very heart of the Christian’s walk here on earth. It gives us our duty as a believer, one that is incredibly hard to complete. When someone is evil towards us, we are called to return a blessing. When someone insults us, we are called to love them. It’s almost as if we are incapable of this very thing! And we are. Without the Lord’s ever presence constantly guiding us and refining us to be like His Son, our Savior, Christ Jesus. He is the One example we follow. For in the midst of the most extreme suffering during His excruciating death, we see Him in a posture of “sweet, submissive, silence.” -Kelderman.
And instead of fighting back, cursing back, He says, “Forgive them, Lord, for they know not what they do.” He is calling a blessing upon their souls. This is life changing. This is nearly impossible for us! Except thru Him. The complete and perfect example of humility, grace, and love.
May we each display this gentleness. This lowliness of heart. This humility in the face of intense suffering. May we each return good in the face of evil, knowing that God promises to bless us! With an inheritance that will not fade! What an honor to serve our King in this manner. To silently submit to suffering and graciously offer compassion in return.
What a Savior we serve!