Devotional - March,20, 2024
Scripture: Galatians 3: 3-4 Yet not even Titus, who was with me, was compelled to be circumcised, even though he was a Greek. This matter arose because some false believers had infiltrated our ranks to spy on the freedom we have in Christ Jesus and to make us slaves.
Paul continues to make his case against the Judiazers who were trying to suck the church back into traditions that were no longer needed, because of the work God did through Jesus Christ. Next week is the week we call Holy Week. Kind of unfortunate that we only label one week during the year as holy. But maybe not. Some during this week get very solemn and fast. The services have a serious and even ominous tone. I remember attending the evening Tenebrae Service where everything was removed from the altar during the service and the candles were extinguished one by one. The last one being walked out of the sanctuary leaving everyone in darkness. And then, WAM! WAM! The pastor would slam the service book close and slam it down on the table symbolizing the closing of the tomb. After a few minutes, the lights would be brought back only to the point where you could see enough to depart the sanctuary and everyone did ...in silence. It got your attention. But come the following week, did any of that bravado matter to anyone? Probably not... I think it is good to reflect on what God did for us through Christ as long as the needed sentiment is preserved. Fear should not be the focus of Holy Week. Appreciation and gratitude would be much more appropriate. Thankfulness and maybe even a little awe, that our God, the LORD God, would live the life of Jesus for us. For you specifically, so that you may be with God, now and forever (John 14: 1-3) hallelujah...
Pray with me.., Holy God sometimes we are not sure how we should act before You. We wish we could do better, and yet, are very thankful for all you have done for us. Hear us as we give You thanks and praise. Be with our loved ones we pray, bless them according to their needs and be with our church. Help us to be the people You call us to be, in Jesus' name, Amen
God's peace,
Pastor Brian
