Devotionals by Chris Jordan

“Unto you therefore who believe, He is precious.” (1 Peter 2:7).

It is late one spring morning as I stare out the windows of my prison cell to gaze upon a bright blue sky, thankful that the days of dark clouds and rain are passing away. As I was reading through the Gospels this morning, I reflected upon the life of Jesus and how everywhere he went he showed love, acceptance and forgiveness to the worst of sinners, healed those who were sick, and brought hope to the hopeless. It reminded me of the above truth, written by the Apostle Peter; this is a reflection of my heart, too: Jesus is precious to me!

As I reflected on this simple yet magnificent revelation, I was reminded of the story of an early follower of Jesus from the first century: Polycarp. He was persecuted for his faith in Jesus and was told that he must renounce Christ or be burned at the stake. His response was: “Eighty and six years have I served Jesus and he has never wronged me. How then can I do this wrong and deny my Saviour?” Here is a man who knew the preciousness of Jesus.

Today, though I am overwhelmed by a raging storm that threatens to destroy the boat that is my life, I am not afraid. My heart hears the gentle whisper of Jesus saying, “Peace, be still,” and it is well with my soul. Whatever else I may or may not have today, I have Jesus, and he is precious to me.