Quirky
We are a quirky people. The very way we live is weird. Comedians make money pointing out the oddities in our nature and causing us to laugh at ourselves. Such things as talking louder to someone who does not know our language because English is much easier to grasp when someone yells it at you; or, pressing the buttons on the remote control harder when the batteries are wearing out because extra pressure will squeeze the very last ounce of energy out of them; and, leaning when we turn a corner in our car because we might fall out or we think the vehicle needs a little help in maneuvering.
None of these nuances makes sense when we view them in this context, yet these natural habits creep into our reactions to our environment. Other habits are more under our control, although just as strange. Have you ever had a “practice conversation” with someone, going over what you want to tell them even though you are by yourself? Have you ever avoided stepping on a crack in the sidewalk as an adult, even though you know your mother’s back is going to be just fine? Have you ever shivered and thought of a goose walking over your grave?
Peculiar?
Yes! We are a peculiar people. And more so, God recognizes Christians as such in His own Words! However, the word peculiar has a different and far more encompassing meaning than what is described above.
We find this in 1 Peter 2:9, where the King James Version reads, “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvelous light…” As we look at the meaning of peculiar, we find the original text to hold a deeper meaning.
The word “peculiar” in its modern definition would mean we are a people distinguished from others or singular. What is expressed by the sense of the Scripture would mean we are a people bought or redeemed. Both of these things are true, but neither of them expresses the exact sense of the original expression in Greek, “laos eis peripoieesin”. We should view this expression as “a people for a possession” pertaining specifically to God. We are a people which He has secured as His own, a people which belong to Him and to no other. In this sense we are SPECIAL as being His, which makes us UNLIKE others, or unique.
This expanded translation is supported in other places in the Bible, such as in Exodus 19:5 where the King James Version reads, “Ye shall be a peculiar treasure with Me above all people.” Again, we are called into a belonging and referenced with high regard in each case.
Some people may have difficulty with being labeled a possession. This should provide comfort instead of tension. I find it natural to call my wife “MINE”. I take her for my wife just as she has me as her husband. I am comfortable she calls me “HERS”. As a married couple, we take care of each other and find comfort in “belonging”.
When we call ourselves Americans, we are recognizing we belong to our country – we are a people. In a sense, we are “possessions” of our country. Many people find comfort in being an American and belonging to this great country.
When we call ourselves Christians, we are recognizing we belong to our God – we are His people. In a direct way, we are His possessions. We should find comfort in being Christians and belonging to a great God – One who loves us beyond our comprehension.
This makes us peculiar in a whole new way.
Do you know someone who might enjoy this blog or one of my eStories or Books? Please share this blog or my website with them. Thanks!
Glenn Sasscer
www.glennsasscer.com
Sign Up For Email Delivery For This Blog
