Today’s scripture: Luke 12:57-59 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (James Hendrix):
Dan and I had been friends since college. Although we moved to different parts of the country after graduation, we kept in touch. One evening during a telephone conversation, Dan and I began to argue about our plans for a camping trip. The argument grew tense, we exchanged heated words, and we eventually hung up without apologizing. For three months I did not call Dan, and he did not contact me.
During my devotional time one morning, I realized that I was still angry with Dan. I knew that my anger would continue to grow if I did not face it and deal with it. I prayed and asked God to forgive me, and then I called Dan and apologized. He also apologized and asked for forgiveness. We talked for more than an hour, prayed for each other, and set up a weekend for our long-delayed camping trip.
All of us were once separated from God, but through Christ’s death on the cross, we are now reconciled to God. We can rejoice in knowing that we are no longer God’s enemies. Through the gift of Jesus, we have a relationship of peace with our Lord.
Prayer for the day: Thank you, Lord, for your grace in Jesus Christ, whose life, death, and resurrection reconcile us to you. Amen.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.