1 Peter 2:20-21 … For this we have been Called (06/07/17)
“Endure when you do Right and yet suffer for it …
For to this you have been Called.”
~ unknown (1 Peter 2:20-21)
There are a few important points to consider related to this verse:
*First of all, while it is indeed important to persist in Doing Right (i.e. Caring for others – especially when we feel least able to do so – see Matthew 24:12-14; and especially for those “least deserving” of the same – see Matthew 5:38-48), the selfless nature of Kindness means that we never need to emotionally “endure” while doing so. Indeed, “enduring” something traditionally implies that there is a degree of suffering involved – and suffering, as we now, can only exist when one is focusing on one’s own discomfort as opposed to the trials &/or hardships of the other …
*Fortunately, the Greek word for “endure” here is “hypomeneite,” a word that does not imply said suffering at all, but rather simply means “to remain” or “to persist” (see Strong’s #5278). Accordingly, seeing as how truly Right Action is 100% focused on the other and 0% focused on the self, it is literally impossible to suffer while “Doing Right.” We can experience pain while doing so, of course, and yet we cannot suffer from the same. Indeed whatever pain or discomfort is felt during acts Rightness (i.e. selfless Caring &/or self-sacrificial Love) are actually seen as allies to the one engaged in the same; knowing as he or she does that acts of Kindness extended while in pain are exponentially more powerful (and therefore exponentially more Peace-enlivening) than acts of Love given in times of ease or pleasure …
*And it is indeed to such bold acts of selfless Love that we have all been Called (see Matthew 5:43-48 + John 13:15-17 et al), for what Power is there in merely Caring for others who are being Kind to us? What transformation comes from being merely nice or friendly or polite to strangers? What transcendence is available when ignoring enemies or defending ourselves from them?
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