Lent Devotional MARCH 8, 2019
Scripture
John 1:35-42
35 The next day John again was standing with two of his disciples, 36 and as he watched Jesus walk by, he exclaimed, “Look, here is the Lamb of God!” 37 The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. 38 When Jesus turned and saw them following, he said to them, “What are you looking for?” They said to him, “Rabbi” (which translated means Teacher), “where are you staying?” 39 He said to them, “Come and see.” They came and saw where he was staying, and they remained with him that day. It was about four o'clock in the afternoon. 40 One of the two who heard John speak and followed him was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother. 41 He first found his brother Simon and said to him, “We have found the Messiah” (which is translated Anointed). 42 He brought Simon to Jesus, who looked at him and said, “You are Simon son of John. You are to be called Cephas” (which is translated Peter).
Devotional
Angela Rishell, M.Div. / Pastor, Ringgold and North Freedom United Methodist Churches, Ringgold, Pa.
This story of John and his disciples is a great reminder of what discipleship is really supposed to look like. We don’t know how long the two had been following John, but we know from their being called “disciples” that these men had been committed to their teacher. The moment John recognized the “Lamb of God,” they immediately dropped their post and changed direction. Too often, as Christians we find ourselves going through the motions of busy daily lives. We believe that the life to which we have committed ourselves is pleasing to God, but we rarely allow God to intervene in our routine. I wonder what kind of powerful impact it would have if we followed the example of these two disciples by asking Jesus every day the all-important question, “Where are you staying?” and then, in response to that answer, dwell in that place with Him, thereby encouraging others to do the same. This season of Lent is an ideal time to reevaluate what it means to be a disciple of Jesus. Take time at the beginning of this day to ask that question, discern Christ’s response, and see what amazing things God will do with you.
Prayer
Lord, where are you staying? Where are you going? Where are you leading? I desire to be a committed disciple to you, and I am willing to go wherever you lead. Guide my heart to love what you love. Guide my mouth to speak your words. Guide my mind to think your thoughts. Guide my hands and feet to go and serve your people with joy and love. Amen.
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