God’s Holy Priests

“And now God is building you, as living stones, into His spiritual house. What’s more, you are God’s holy priests, who offer the spiritual sacrifice that please Him because of Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 2:5

One of the spiritual truths that was rediscovered 500 years ago was the “priesthood of all believers.” This priesthood of believers is not only referring to a priest or pastor, whose occupation is to build up the Father’s house, but it is a call to each believer to use his or her own unique gifts to further His Kingdom.

Over the last few weeks I was blessed to watch all types of people and personalities with their own unique set of God given gifts to build up the Father’s spiritual house in South Africa. A plumber, several carpenters, a principal, teachers, students, cooks, cleaners and so many others offered their gifts as “spiritual sacrifices.”

The Holy Spirit loves to dwell in humble hearts who have found Jesus as the “Cornerstone” to build their lives upon. The overflow of encountering the Rock of Redemption is building up His Kingdom through loving acts of service. This is worship at its best!

The Oceans campus became a house of praise as lumber was cut, walls knocked out, flooring laid, rooms remodeled, weeds pulled, meals cooked and dishes washed. In the community the hungry were fed, children were taught the Bible, God’s Word was studied, and precious times of prayer and worship were shared. All these actions reflect and reveal a Good, Good Father. A Father who “called us out of the darkness and into His wonderful light.” 1 Peter 2:9

Our world needs to encounter such “living stones” who use their God given gifts as acts of worship; “Holy priests” filled with the Father’s love. Such a kingdom is what the world is desperately searching for. Governments, financial security, power, and the false promises in our culture simply won’t give lasting security. But as believers we can be “living stones” recreated in the very image of Christ Jesus to be “holy priests” flooding the world with the Father’s heart of love and grace. This is how the Father builds His Kingdom of love.

What a privilege to observe such love in action on campus and in the community. This week remember that you have a calling on your life and gifts to share as God’s Holy Priests. I challenge you to willingly use your gifts and trust that He will use them to reflect His life- changing love to others.