Seeznak

Our Calling

I Peter is the letter in which we, the “elect exiles” for Christ, are given such grand distinctions as being a “chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for [God's] own possession.” So when Peter says, in 2:21, “to this you have been called”, it is interesting to note that he is not referring to our status as a holy nation or our new vocation as kingly priests. Those are our privileges, but our calling is far more pride-stripping:

For this is a gracious thing, when, mindful of God, one endures sorrows while suffering unjustly. For what credit is it if, when you sin and are beaten for it, you endure? But if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God. For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. - I Peter 2:19-21

Our calling is to mirror Christ. These words are addressed specifically to servants, but the context suggests that all Christians bear the same responsibility to properly submit when submission is due, making all of us servants in some sense. This ludicrous servitude is what we have been called to do. Just as our Creator, the highest authority in the universe, submitted Himself to the mocking of His creation, so we are to follow in His steps. Jesus showed the world His theology (i.e., His understanding of the Father) by submitting to scorn, beatings, and death, since His understanding of the Father caused Him to treasure the Father’s will. If we are to be faithful theologians, then we are called to show our hearts’ treasure by doing good and gladly enduring unjust suffering for it.

This is the highest calling.