Devotion
The good, the bad and the ugly
David Jacobs
So many things have changed in our lives with the vast advancements in technology. Social media is one example of something that is now so commonplace that it is hard to remember what life was like before it. A constant barrage of pictures and videos keeps us up to date with what is going on with our friends, but the desire to be liked and noticed can lead some to neglect what is true or good just for a little social media attention. I have seen and commented on images and articles that I feel are inappropriate or untrue. This secular desire to be liked at all costs can lead to evil and away from good. When you think about it on an individual level, it is sad, but when you consider the dangers on an organizational and business level, it is truly dangerous.
It is not all so bleak. We can change our own behaviors for the better and lead by example. We have the tools to arm ourselves with truth, love, and that which is good. Do not spread evil and hate; spread love, kindness, and equality. I see so many people on social media glorifying celebrities and quoting things with an evil message. How often do we quote God's word? How often do you see the teachings of Christ displayed on social media? Luckily, we have our own avenues to share this love and kindness with each other. If we continue to read these verses, share them, and act as they explain, the world will be a bit brighter.
Prayer
On this day of Visitation, take some time to share a passage or passage that is important to you with friends. Like the Virgin Mary, your words alone can make a great impact on those that hear them, and you and those around you will be filled with the Holy Spirit. If you are not aware of this holy day, Read Luke 1:39-47, the story of the Visitation. Read and meditate on the words, and share them with people that may need it.
Night Prayer
Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess.
Inspiration
We despise the thought of a pile of dirty dishes in the sink. The outside is easy to clean; it's the caked-up residue on the inside that's so difficult to remove. Jesus compares the scribes and Pharisees with dishes that have been wiped clean on the outside while dirty inside. The Pharisees took exceptional care of their outward appearance and neglected their inward spirits. We are guilty of allowing our hearts to be left filthy as well. We look and act as we should while our souls are full of darkness. We must continue to converse with the Holy Spirit daily and trust His guidance to cleanse our sinful nature.
Prayer
Dear God, Please forgive our sinful nature. We yearn for cleansing from within, so we are genuine witnesses to Your name. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
