As we are currently studying Peter’s letter to the scattered Christians in Asia Minor (1 Peter), we have come to understand that he is giving instructions to those living in the ‘time between’; the time between the promise (the second coming of Christ) and the fulfilment of that promise which will bring about the consummation of God’s plan of salvation… the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.  (1:5)
 
The ‘time between’ is sometimes marked by trials and suffering (1:6) and injustices; it is a time when Christians may be misunderstood, wrongly accused and mistreated; it is a time when the values of this world often conflict with Kingdom values.  This is the world in which we live!
 
We live with the tension of standing firm in our Biblical values and beliefs, while seeking to influence those who may not agree with the truth we hold to as Christians.  While some of these truths and values are easily defined in the pages of the Bible, we also have to wrestle with areas that are not always black and white; particularly when it comes to how we choose to respond to those who have a different world view.
 
We hold to the sanctity of all life, but does that mean we picket the clinic of the girl who does not share the same values, who will not listen to our reasoning and instead goes ahead with an abortion?  Or do we sit in the waiting room, take her home after and help her rebuild her life? 
 
Do we refuse to marry a pregnant bride in the church who recognizes that this is not the ideal way to enter into a marriage or start a family, or do we try to do everything we can to seek to encourage her / this couple? 
 
Do we refuse to attend the same-sex union of a grandson, or do we attend, having told the him that we don't approve, but we love him and desire to protect the family bond, keeping the door open for further opportunities to influence his life with the truth of God’s Word? 
 
Do we refuse to provide a memorial service for one whose lifestyle does not align with Biblical standards or do we reach out to a grieving family, to minister to them, to bring comfort and encouragement and share the hope that is ours in Christ?
 
What do we say to the homosexual, lesbian or transgendered neighbor?  Do we condemn their choices and speak of the judgement of God, (be careful how you answer—remember we are all under God’s judgment and in need of divine grace), or do we tell them God loves them and share the truth of His goodness and mercy?
 
The list goes on.  How do we respond?  How would you respond?
 
Peter exhorts us:  Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us. (2:12)
Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor.  (2:17)
 
If you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.  (2:20-21)
 
The ‘time between’ – this is the world in which we live, and it’s not easy!  So, let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.  (Galatians 6:9)
 
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.  (Hebrews 10:24)

The warmth of the sunshine felt good, not only on the outside, but it warmed my soul as I sat on the back deck--my favorite place of refuge and solitude.  I sat with our dog Chara lying beside me, her head on my lap as I gently stroked her, my mind racing in many different directions.  I thought of my friend Andy and smiled as I pictured him in heaven, reconnecting with so many others who have gone before us--Bob and Guy and Dave and Herb, to name only a few.  I thought about the work of Hospice and the many people our volunteers have walked with on the palliative journey / at the end of life.  I thought about friends who are on that journey now; those fighting courageously and modelling a faith that encourages me.  ​As these thoughts rolled around in mind, I was struck with the realization that over the years there have been many, too many times when I have had to walk with others in the valley of the shadow of death. 

​On this afternoon, I was trying to come to terms with the news from the veterinarian that my four-legged friend, whose name means 'joy', the one who came into our lives after having to saying good bye to our dog Shady, has a life-limiting form of cancer.  She is only three years old and there is a knot in my stomach at the thought of having to let her go so soon.

​I know it may sound foolish and sentimental, but as I stroked behind her ears, I quietly whispered, "I'll love you till the end, we'll take care of you, you won't have to suffer".   

It's been a few days now since we received this news and it still troubles my spirit.  I'm learning again how deeply we are affected by loss, whether it's a beloved family pet or a close family member or friend; anyone one who is  loved.  I'm also recognizing again what a gift it is to walk with those who are dealing with a critical illness; those who are on the palliative journey and who may be nearing the finish line.  I'm being reminded how critically important it is to stay on the journey with them, to reassure our loved ones and friends that we will be there for them, to support, encourage and care for them; to whisper, "I'll love you to the end".

​Mostly I'm having to remind myself again of the truth of Scripture that death has been swallowed up in victory  (1 Corinthians 15:54); that we have a home in heaven waiting for us when our time on this earth is done; that our citizenship is in heaven (Philippians 3:20).

Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.  (John 14:-13)