Today’s readings: Deuteronomy 6:1-15; Hebrews 1:1-14; John 1:1-18
What’s on your heart today? Each day we carrying all sorts of burdens, cares and concerns. People are grieving the loss of loved ones. They are struggling with unemployment and providing for their families. Health issues for themselves or loved ones weigh heavily on hearts and minds. We all know that’s the tip of the iceberg. Life is filled with challenges and crises — and we get so caught up in those things.
Today’s readings are a call to refocus. In Deuteronomy 6, we are reminded that we are called to love God and have His will and His Word dwelling in our hearts. We’re to teach it, talk about it, bind that Word to ourselves, and post it as a proclamation on our doorposts. God’s Word is central to who and Whose we are. Add to that, the Word made flesh and dwelling in and with us as described in John’s Gospel. He is “full of grace and truth.” In Christ, we receive “grace upon grace” —love, forgiveness, new life, and eternal life. Today we are reminded that the Word is greater and more powerful than the burdens in our hearts. Let go of the burdens and cling to that Word!
Prayer: Lord, fill us with light and love, grace and forgiveness, and the joy of knowing that casting all burdens on you makes all the difference in the world. Amen.
Today’s devotion was written by Dr. Robert M. Palan, Pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church, La Vernia, TX.