Friday, December 22, 2023
Friday, December 22, 2023:
Pause. Pray. Read. Be still. Write. Pray. Go about your day or turn in for the night.
Read: John 7:40-52
Resistance to Jesus began to heat up. His words caused the crowd to split into two camps. On the one hand, some did not see Jesus for who He was – the Son of God – because their tradition and stereotypical expectations of a Messiah blinded them to His identity. Acknowledging him would cost them status and authority. On the other hand, some who heard his words and saw his miracles, began to wonder if indeed he was the Promised One.They listened and watched to see what he was doing.
Be still and Reflect: Why do you think Jesus causes division? God wants none to perish (2 Peter 3:9). So, what is something you can do today to help bring truth and unity found in Christ? How can you reflect him in your conversation even though others respond with resistance?
Pray: Heavenly Father, Thank You for making Jesus as the Word made flesh. In this season of Advent, I give him my full attention, trust, and obedience. Show me, God, where and how I can offer his acceptance, justice, peace, and harmony to individuals, the church body, and our communities. Strengthen my faith such that I will stand firm in his truth, even when faced with doubt, hostility, or rejection. In the mighty name of Christ who came and gave his life to set us free, Amen.