City Life Starter

Written by Aisha Darwesh

The Word

^13-16 So roll up your sleeves, get your head in the game, be totally ready to receive the gift that’s coming when Jesus arrives. Don’t lazily slip back into those old grooves of evil, doing just what you feel like doing. You didn’t know any better then; you do now. As obedient children, let yourselves be pulled into a way of life shaped by God’s life, a life energetic and blazing with holiness. God said, “I am holy; you be holy.”

–1 Peter 1:13-16 MSG

²³ There were many priests under the old system, for death prevented them from remaining in office. ²⁴ But because Jesus lives forever, his priesthood lasts forever. ²⁵ Therefore he is able, once and forever, to save those who come to God through him. He lives forever to intercede with God on their behalf.

–Hebrews 7:23-25 NLT

Aisha’s Analysis

Today’s scriptures illustrate how holiness has been restored to believers through a relationship with Christ. We see that Jesus is not only the sacrificial lamb who gave His life to purchase our freedom from sin, but He is also our eternal high priest who is interceding with God on our behalf. 

God invites us into a life of holiness. By God’s grace, we are set apart for His plans and purposes. Oftentimes we find that growth is practically imperceptible one day at a time. However, if you have ever watched a time-lapse video of plants growing from seed to sprout and so on, it is beautiful to see what growth looks like over a period of time. 

While you may not feel like your life can be described as “holy” at the moment, it is so comforting to know we have a high priest in heaven right now who is interceding for us. This shows us that holiness is a process. While Jesus’ atonement for our sin is full and final, we still need a high priest to help us connect with God and live a life of holiness. 

Holiness is living in the tension of already and not yet. Right now. We are holy and yet we are still being sanctified and growing into maturity in Christ every day. God’s plan was fulfilled and it’s still unfolding. This is the excitement and wonder of living a life in God. 

I love how The Message translation paraphrases this scripture above on holiness: 

As obedient children, let yourselves be pulled into a way of life shaped by God’s life, a life energetic and blazing with holiness. God said, “I am holy; you be holy.”

–1 Peter 13-16 MSG

Application

How can you let yourself be pulled into a way of life shaped by God’s life today? In this frenetic, fast-paced culture, we get pulled in so many different directions. There is always something tugging for your attention.

Make a conscious effort to slow down and acknowledge Christ as your High Priest. Thank Him for empowering you to live a life of holiness. Regardless of your current state, remember your status. You are an obedient child of God who is being shaped by God’s life, if you’ll let Him. 

Prayer

Father God, thank You that I have Jesus who is the High Priest currently interceding on my behalf. Because of Him, I am Yours. Now and forever. In Jesus’ name, amen.