Home > Reading > The Daily Lectionary – May 25, 2016

matthew11-21

Proverbs 6:1-19; 1 John 5:1–12; Matthew 11:16–24

Living as a disciple of Jesus Christ can seem to be a lonely way to live. As we read the woes Jesus speaks to unrepentant cities where he had performed miracles, yet did not see the people repent, we imagine those words could ring true in many places in today’s world. Sometimes it is difficult to be hopeful and encouraged when it seems our society is pushing away God and his Word, becoming more tolerant of what God has called sin.

Yet, often in Scripture, when it seems there is no hope, God maintains a faithful remnant, using them to rebuild what sin has destroyed. It is central to our faith that God used what seemed to be evil in the death of his Son on the cross, for our good and the good of his kingdom, restoring relationships with him and enabling people to live as his redeemed, forgiven disciples through the death and resurrection of Jesus.

Empowered by the Holy Spirit, God is calling us to share his word of forgiveness and life to our world. Who knows, you might be an instrument God uses to bring someone to repentance and to faith in our Lord Jesus Christ?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, renew me daily in your Word, through faith in your Son and the power of your Holy Spirit, that I might be used to share your love, forgiveness, and life. Amen.

Today’s devotion was written by Christopher Martin, Pastor of Emmons Lutheran Church, Emmons, MN.