Reading: 1 Peter 2:18–25
Did you ever have the experience of getting lost as a little child at the mall or grocery store? At first, it generally is just some innocent wandering, exploring new areas and new things. And then suddenly you look up and mom and dad are not there. You look around, slight panic in your breath, before seeing that familiar figure. You grab the back of their shirt and tug, making sure they know you are there, only to have the person that turns around not be mom or dad. Severe panic sets in. You begin to wail, fearful that you have been abandoned forever. But then in comes dad, sweeping you up in his arms. You are safe.
We are still those little children spiritually. We wander and we stray. We go after false gods, only to find that life is not to be found in them. Then in comes Christ. He takes us up in His arms. We are secure. By His wounds we have been healed and are rescued from death. Rest in His care.
Prayer
Dearest Savior, you have returned us from our straying ways. Grant us rest in the security of Your grace and love that we might wander no more; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Hymn
We are Yours; in love befriend us,
Be the guardian of our way;
Keep Your flock, from sin defend us,
Seek us when we go astray.
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus,
Hear us children when we pray.
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus,
Hear us children when we pray. (LSB 711:2)
Joseph Highley (Sem IV, CSL)