Winning the election
by Colleen Fitzpatrick
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‘His divine power has given us everything needed for life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness’ (2 Peter 1:3).
When I look in the mirror, I see an ageing face with some wrinkles, greying hair, and glasses – an image that continues to change as the years slide by. I know, too, that what I am seeing is God’s image because that is how God has made us. This passage invites us to become part of God’s divine nature – to confirm our call and election to be part of a great mystery that is God’s promise for us on earth.
As Christians, we are called to become participants in this divine mystery and thus escape the corruption that is in the world, to be obedient and to lead a godly life. As Christians, we are participants in God’s divine mystery on earth, and that means we are not alone.
It is by faith that we can seek the path towards the divine: by living godly lives of goodness, understanding, self-control, endurance, godliness, mutual affection and love. We are encouraged to strive to develop these attributes and values. There is no secret knowledge required. Just by living in this way, our faith can grow, and each of us can become more effective and fruitful as we live our life in Christ. Maybe that is what our family and friends who have not accepted their call and election need to see in us.
On reflection, I find that I struggle with every single one of these attributes but the struggle needs to continue as I strive to lead a well-rounded and fruitful Christian life. I often think of Paul’s words to the Philippians where he encourages them to think about whatever is true, honourable, just, pure, pleasing, commendable, excellent and worthy of praise. That isn’t always easy in a world that seems to have become addicted to all that is negative, to criticism and condemnation of others, to trial by media and social media. (Philippians 4 is worth a read.)
By continuing to strive to lead a holy and godly life, not only will we live in a better world, but God will dwell in us through the Holy Spirit, and we will be given entry into God’s eternal kingdom. Now that is an election worth winning!
Loving God, help us through your Holy Spirit to claim our call and election into your kingdom. Help us to lead a life that is pleasing to you and of benefit to our community. Amen.
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