When we read through the Bible as part of our regular devotions or in church, there are things we let slide by without much thought. Since verse ten of chapter two in 2 Peter is only half a sentence, the desire immediately arises to scan the context forward and backward to see what is being said.
In his book, Surprised By Joy, C.S. Lewis identifies opponents of true joy as different kinds of lust. Whether they were sexual lust or some lust fulfilling a psychological need, they were approximations of true joy. Occasionally, he was reminded with excruciating clarity that they did not satisfy; they did not give the enduring joy he searched for.
According to Peter, the passion of lust defiles a person, and when boundaries and checks are ignored, authority is despised as well. Only Jesus' blood will wash away the stain of lust and rebellion, healing the corruption that has infected our bodies and souls. Only Jesus can pierce our black hearts with the pure light of grace given to us through faith in His atoning work for us on the cross and the promise of His resurrection.
Come to Him daily in repentance, and know He is faithful and will forgive you, filling you with true joy and hope this Lenten season.
THE PRAYER: Lord Jesus Christ, renew us and lead us according to Your great love and mercy. Fill us anew each day with the true joy and hope that only comes from You, and guide us into a life of service to one another, thereby resisting the temptations of this world. In the Name of the resurrected Lord Jesus. Amen.
Written by Pastor Matthew Mortenson
Faith Lutheran Church - Humboldt, Nebraska
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