Wind & Fire - ReflectionsSample

Written by Javier De La Rosa - Discipleship Minister at City on a Hill Melbourne

“The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.” - 1 Peter 4:7-11 (ESV)

Peter writes with urgency and hope. Because Christ has come and will come again, the church is called to live with clarity, love, and purpose. In a watching world, the way God’s people speak, serve, and love becomes a powerful witness to the grace of Jesus.

At the center of Peter’s vision is love expressed through action. Hospitality, service, and faithful speech are not simply acts of kindness; they are visible expressions of God’s grace. The Holy Spirit distributes gifts within the church so that, together, we might make the gospel tangible. Through words spoken in truth and lives given in service, the church bears witness to a gracious God.

These gifts are not meant to draw attention to us, but to God. When we speak, we speak as those entrusted with God’s Word. When we serve, we do so in God’s strength. In both, God is glorified, and others are invited to see what His grace looks like when it takes root in real people and real communities.

To desire these gifts, then, is to desire God’s glory and the good of others. As we steward what God has given us, the church becomes a living testimony, pointing beyond itself to the grace that sustains it.

Reflect:

Based on today’s reading:

How is the Holy Spirit inviting me to respond today, for God’s glory and the good of others?

Pray:

Lord, thank You for Your grace at work in Your church. Help me to faithfully use the gifts You have given for the good of others and the glory of Your name. May my words and actions bear witness to the grace of Jesus. Amen.