Today’s readings: Jeremiah 38:14-28; 1 Corinthians 15:1-11; Matthew 11:1-6

“And blessed is the one who is not offended by me.” Jesus spoke these words in response to John’s disciples who were sent to see if Jesus was indeed the Messiah. Have we ever taken the time to really ask ourselves what that means to us? The word blessed, as an adjective, meaning made holy, to be consecrated. As a noun, it means those who live with God in heaven.

For those who hear and do the will of the Father, we become holy, set apart in service to God. We are consecrated for service to God and his kingdom. We are privileged to serve God and he takes care of our needs in this life. This doesn’t mean that we will be free from the ills of this world but we are secure in the knowledge that we do not go through this life alone. Emmanuel, God is with us.

For those “who do not take offense,” it also means that we are secure in the knowledge that when this life is over we will live forever without pain, sorrow, or the effects of sin. Rather, we will be serving, worshiping, and reigning with God in the New Jerusalem. Believe and be blessed.

Prayer: Father, help us to serve you in your kingdom with willing hearts, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Today’s devotion was written by Steven King, Pastor of Bethel Evangelical Lutheran Church in Lincolnton, NC.

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