You are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.

(1 Peter 2:9–10 NIV)

Despite having a love for Scotland and for Scottish music, I felt I had to share these with you:

Q: What’s the difference between a bagpipe and an onion?
A: No one cries when you chop up a bagpipe.

Q: Why do pipers always walk when they play?
A: Moving targets are harder to hit.

Q: What’s the difference between a bagpipe and a trampoline?
A: You take off your shoes when you jump on a trampoline.

Q: What’s the difference between a lawn mower and a bagpipe?
A: You can tune the lawn mower — and the neighbors complain if you don’t return it.

Q: How can you tell if a bagpipe is out of tune?
A: Someone is blowing into it.

Bagpipes get a lot of abuse. They’re strange, loud, and unlike most other instruments. You won’t find them in a symphony orchestra, and many people think they sound more like noise than music. Yet, for all their peculiarities, there’s something about them that stirs the soul and speaks of deep heritage.  Personally, I love bagpipes. Maybe it’s the music itself, or maybe it’s because they remind me of Scotland, one of my favorite places in the world.

In a way, Christians are like bagpipes. We sound different. We live by a different rhythm. We often stand out in a world that doesn’t quite know what to make of us. And like the piper who keeps playing despite the jokes, we keep living out our faith even when it draws criticism or misunderstanding.

The apostle Peter reminds us that this difference is not a flaw — it’s our calling. We are God‘s “own special people”, described in the KJV as his “peculiar” people.  We’re not called to fit in; we’re called to reflect Christ’s character into a watching world. 

Our “music” may not always be appreciated by those around us, but it carries the melody of another kingdom — the kingdom of God. So let the world hear it!

Prayer: Father, thank you for calling us to be your people, set apart to reflect your light in the world. Help us to live boldly and joyfully, even when we seem out of tune with those around us. May the song of our lives draw others to the beauty of your kingdom.  In Jesus’ name, amen.

Alan Smith
Reprinted with permission from Alan Smith’s Thought For the Day