As stars scattered across an Advent night’s sky, so does Peter write to Christians flung across Asia Minor. His words flow down the centuries to you to this very moment. If you are lonely, dejected, rejected, or even persecuted, then this letter is especially for you. Read and embrace words of hope intended to lift you from discouragement that comes when darkness seems more basic than light. Pause at those words and phrases that touch you, repeating them as you breathe the saving words of healing salvation.

In verse 4, the word “kept” is a military one. God is a powerful sentry to guard you from the hurt that the Evil One wants to inflict pain upon you. Be embraced by the light that is this passage.

The Reading for Today