“He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly. He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.”
1 Peter 2:22-24
Easter 2 – Easter and the Servant’s Example
The legal profession is marked by a strong work ethic, and Christian lawyers are in some ways no different. But it is a relatively easy thing, to be motivated and driven in a fair working environment. When hard work is rewarded, and due credit and recognition is given, who wouldn’t be spurred on to serve their masters well?
Peter, however, commands Christian slaves in 1 Peter 2 to submit themselves to their masters with all respect not only when they are considerate, but even when they are harsh. The challenge for the 21st century lawyer is to demonstrate loyalty, service and impeccable standards of work even when a victim of injustice – even when being sinned against.
How could this be possible, or right? Well, because of Easter.
Peter’s command to submit ourselves to our masters is rooted in the example of Christ on the cross. With strong echoes of Isaiah 53, Peter reminds his readers, “Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.” As we meditate upon his suffering at Calvary, we see a man who “entrusted himself to him who judges justly”, and who calls those he did it all for to do the same.
Thank you, Father God, that though I was like a sheep who had gone astray, Christ endured the injustice of the cross so that you could lay on him my iniquity. And so I pray for the strength to follow his example in submitting myself to others and, even when faced with injustice, entrusting myself to you, the one who judges justly. And as I do that, I pray that others might see my good deeds and glorify you.
AmenRev. Martin Ayers is providing a short series of Word for the Weeks in the lead up to Easter. He is a former lawyer and now a Curate. He has written two books including Keep the Faith.