The sentiment of Peter’s letter is once again loving and hope filled. He begins by telling his readers, “Beloved: Sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts.” The phrase reminds us that the human heart is the receptacle of all that is good about us and we should take care to guard the divine treasure that our hearts contain which is, of course, Jesus Christ.
The early Christians reading this letter are reminded by Peter to speak about the hope that is Jesus Christ with “gentleness and reverence” and to maintain a clear conscience. The teaching that Peter is giving this Sunday, as well as last week, is to encourage the early Christian communities to preach and proclaim quietly, but powerfully, the life-giving presence that is Christ in their lives.
The intent of this teaching should not be lost on you and me for we too are still charged with living our faith in the world for all to see.
In Christ,