But

But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. 1 Peter 2:9-10

But… is such a powerful word. It is used to contrast two differing concepts or facts. What precedes the “but” is different from what follows it. 

I was hungry but now I am full.
I was tired but now I am rested.
I was lost but now I am found.

The “but” at the beginning of verse 9 in contrasting those who have rejected the Lord from those who follow Him. The terminology he uses is similar to that used by God to refer to the nation of Israel. God had a special relationship with Israel as His chosen nation. 

But, Jesus changed everything. In this new covenant, each of us may experience a special relationship with God. He has chosen the human race and invites each of us to follow Jesus. When we do we will not live in darkness, but in the light of His mercy.

You are chosen by God. Be the light and share the story of your “but”. So that through your testimony His mercy may shine. 

Be blessed and be a blessing,
Matt