2 Peter 3
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2 Peter 3:8-9, But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.
In the final chapter of Peter’s second letter, we find Peter continuing to warn the churches about false teachers. These were teachers who were mocking the believers for thinking that Jesus would return to judge the world. These teachers professed faith in Jesus but didn’t live as Christians were called to live. In fact, as Peter had alluded to in previous chapters, these false teachers could often be identified by their morals and their motives. They were greedy and selfish. They cared more for their own needs and preferences than they did about submission to Jesus as Lord. They didn’t lead virtuous lives and they didn’t care to do so. It isn’t surprising, then, that they don’t believe that Jesus will come back to judge them. They have formed Jesus into what they wanted him to be.
In today’s focus verses, we find Peter’s response. While it might seem like Jesus is taking time to return, the Lord always keeps his promises. God’s perspective is not our perspective. His timing is not our timing. His days are not 24 hour days that run according to the Gregorian calendar. Rather, God is patient and enduring. God loves his people and doesn’t want anyone to perish. He cares for every single human being across the whole world and he is giving them plenty of time to come back to him.
Bigger question: If God desires all to come to know him, to repent, and receive salvation, then how is this going to happen? Well, we are God’s plan A and there isn’t a plan B. God has called his people to share the Gospel here, there, and everywhere. This is a core part of who God has called US to be.
Let’s pray…Lord, Thank you for your patience with us. Thank you for loving us. Help us recognize your call on our lives so that we can be about sharing your Good News with the world. May we live our lives with joy and boldness. Give us courage, motivation, and a deep love for your people. More of you and less of me. Amen.