Devotion
Who Am I To Deny God’s Gift?
Frances Taylor
In the beginning of the church, there were those who believed that only the Jews were called to be saved. This testimony of Peter changed their minds and they realized that the Gentiles had also been called to believe in Christ and be saved. Of course, there would still be some discussions about whether or not they would have to jump through hoops to become Christians – would they need to be circumcised? Would they need to obey the dietary restrictions? These questions would be answered later as more Gentiles became Christian. What about today? Do we accept those who come to us for baptism? Do we judge whether or not they are worthy or if they know enough? For me, anyone who comes forward for baptism because they have come to believe in Jesus has been called by God and has already been led by the Holy Spirit and will come to know more as time goes on. If we read the progression of the growth of Christianity, no one is asked to take a test. Faith as we know is a gift that needs to grow, but how can it grow if we deny access to the means of growth – a community of loving believers who will nurture that seed of faith.
Prayer
Lord, may we never judge those to whom you have revealed yourself as unworthy of the gift. May we be the loving community of faith that helps then come to an even deeper knowledge and love of you. Amen.
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.
