November 29 - 1 Peter 2

Elsewhere pastors have commented on how perfectly the Treasury's writings work for devotions before meetings.  It is one of those nights in these parts as the councils of my dual parish meet to discuss their work together.  Neither could afford to sacrifice what it would take to have their own pastor, and so each congregation makes sacrifices of requests of my time to work with each other and share me as a pastor.  1 Peter 2 gives a good reminder that as God builds us together as living stones to be His spiritual household, these sacrifices are acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.  Without these sacrifices of time, talent and treasure, both congregations would cease to exist - but together we are a royal priesthood whose sacrifices are made on behalf of our local community, and even the world as both congregations well support missions in our country and around the world.  (And, may I add, without their sacrifices, I would not be able to write these words you are reading right now.)  In this way we "proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light" so that many more may glorify God on the day of visitation.