Category: Today’s Devotional

Scripture: Matthew 19:3-12 (WEBBE)

3 Pharisees came to him, testing him, and saying, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any reason?”
4 He answered, “Haven’t you read that he who made them from the beginning made them male and female,
5 and said, ‘For this cause a man shall leave his father and mother, and shall be joined to his wife; and the two shall become one flesh?’
6 So that they are no more two, but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, don’t let man tear apart.”
7 They asked him, “Why then did Moses command us to give her a certificate of divorce and divorce her?”
8 He said to them, “Moses, because of the hardness of your hearts, allowed you to divorce your wives, but from the beginning it has not been so.
9 I tell you that whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery; and he who marries her when she is divorced commits adultery.”
10 His disciples said to him, “If this is the case of the man with his wife, it is not expedient to marry.”
11 But he said to them, “Not all men can receive this saying, but those to whom it is given.
12 For there are eunuchs who were born that way from their mother’s womb, and there are eunuchs who were made eunuchs by men, and there are eunuchs who made themselves eunuchs for the Kingdom of Heaven’s sake. He who is able to receive it, let him receive it.”

Reflection:

In this passage, Jesus is approached by the Pharisees with a question about divorce, intending to test Him. Their inquiry sets the stage for a profound teaching on the nature of marriage, its sacredness, and the importance of faithfulness in relationships.

1. The Sacredness of Marriage:

Jesus responds to the Pharisees by directing them back to the original intent of marriage as established by God at the beginning of creation. He quotes Genesis, reminding them that God made humans male and female and that in marriage, the two become one flesh. Jesus emphasizes the unity and permanence of marriage, stating, “What therefore God has joined together, don’t let man tear apart” (Matthew 19:6).

This response highlights the sacredness of the marital bond. Marriage is not merely a social contract; it is a divine covenant in which two individuals are united by God. The one-flesh union is meant to be a lifelong commitment, reflecting the faithfulness and unity that God desires in our relationships.

2. The Challenge of Faithfulness:

The Pharisees press further, asking why Moses allowed for divorce. Jesus explains that the provision for divorce was given because of the hardness of human hearts, but this was never God’s original intention. Jesus underscores that divorce is not part of God’s design for marriage, and He warns that divorcing for reasons other than sexual immorality and remarrying results in adultery.

This teaching may seem difficult, and even the disciples recognize the challenge it presents, suggesting that it might be better not to marry at all if the commitment is so demanding. Jesus acknowledges that not everyone can accept this teaching, but He affirms that those who are called to marriage must approach it with a commitment to faithfulness, reflecting God’s unwavering love.

3. The Gift of Singleness:

Jesus then introduces the concept of singleness as a calling for some. He speaks of eunuchs—those who are unable to marry either by birth, by circumstances imposed on them, or by choice for the sake of the Kingdom of Heaven. Jesus recognizes that singleness, like marriage, is a gift and a calling that requires grace to embrace.

This teaching expands our understanding of vocation. Whether called to marriage or singleness, each person is invited to live out their calling with faithfulness and dedication. Jesus’ words remind us that both paths are valid and honorable in the eyes of God, and each comes with its own challenges and blessings.

4. The Call to Reflect God’s Love:

At the heart of Jesus’ teaching on marriage and singleness is the call to reflect God’s love and faithfulness in our lives. In marriage, we are called to embody the unity and permanence of God’s covenant with His people. In singleness, we are called to devote ourselves fully to the Kingdom of Heaven, living in a way that honors God.

Jesus’ words challenge us to consider how we approach our relationships—whether in marriage, singleness, or other forms of commitment. Are we striving to reflect God’s love and faithfulness in all that we do? Are we seeking to honor the sacredness of the commitments we make?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of marriage and the calling of singleness. Help us to honor the commitments we make, reflecting Your love and faithfulness in our relationships. Give us the grace to live out our vocations with integrity and devotion to You. May our lives be a testimony to the sacredness of marriage and the joy of serving You, whether in marriage or singleness. Amen.

Contemplation:

Take a moment to reflect on your own relationships and commitments. How can you more fully embody the love and faithfulness that Jesus speaks of in this passage? Whether you are married, single, or considering your vocation, ask God to guide you in living out His will for your life with faithfulness and grace. Spend time in prayer, asking God to help you honor Him in all your relationships and commitments.

Bible Verse:
Romans 8:38-39 (WEBBE)
“For I am persuaded that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Devotional:

Romans 8:38-39 provides a powerful affirmation of God’s unwavering love. In moments of heartache and uncertainty, knowing that nothing can separate us from God’s love is a profound source of comfort and strength.

Paul’s declaration that he is “persuaded” or convinced is a testament to the deep assurance he has in God’s love. He lists various entities and circumstances—death, life, angels, principalities, powers, present and future challenges, and vast dimensions—to emphasize the totality of God’s love. The breadth of this list underscores that no matter what we face, God’s love remains steadfast and unchanging.

The verse concludes with a reassurance that “any other created thing” cannot separate us from the love of God. This encompasses all possible sources of difficulty, doubt, or despair, affirming that nothing within creation can sever the bond between us and God’s love. His love is secure, eternal, and unshakable.

This promise invites us to live in the assurance of God’s love, knowing that it provides a firm foundation amid the trials and tribulations of life. It encourages us to hold fast to the truth of His love, even when our circumstances suggest otherwise.

Today, take a moment to reflect on the depth and constancy of God’s love for you. Embrace the assurance that nothing can separate you from this love and allow it to fill you with peace and hope. Let this truth guide you as you move forward, confident in the unwavering presence and affection of your Heavenly Father.

Prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the assurance that nothing can separate me from Your love. I am grateful for the deep, unchanging love that You have for me, no matter the circumstances I face. Help me to live in the confidence of Your love, allowing it to be my source of peace and strength. As I move forward, let this assurance guide me and fill me with hope. I trust in Your eternal love and thank You for Your unshakable presence in my life. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Scripture: Luke 1:39-56 (WEBBE)

39 Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, into a city of Judah,
40 and entered into the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth.
41 When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.
42 She called out with a loud voice, and said, “Blessed are you amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!
43 Why am I so favoured, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?
44 For behold, when the voice of your greeting came into my ears, the baby leaped in my womb for joy!
45 Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of the things which have been spoken to her from the Lord!”
46 Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord.
47 My spirit has rejoiced in God my Saviour,
48 for he has looked at the humble state of his servant. For behold, from now on, all generations will call me blessed.
49 For he who is mighty has done great things for me. Holy is his name.
50 His mercy is for generations of generations on those who fear him.
51 He has shown strength with his arm. He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.
52 He has put down princes from their thrones and has exalted the lowly.
53 He has filled the hungry with good things. He has sent the rich away empty.
54 He has given help to Israel, his servant, that he might remember mercy,
55 as he spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and his offspring forever.”
56 Mary stayed with her about three months, and then returned to her house.

Reflection:

This passage captures a moment of profound joy, humility, and faith. Mary, having just received the news from the angel Gabriel that she would bear the Son of God, visits her relative Elizabeth, who is also miraculously expecting a child. The encounter between these two women reveals deep spiritual truths about the joy of faith, the power of humble surrender, and the faithfulness of God.

1. The Joy of Faith:

When Mary arrives and greets Elizabeth, something extraordinary happens—Elizabeth’s baby, who would become John the Baptist, leaps in her womb, and Elizabeth is filled with the Holy Spirit. With great joy, Elizabeth recognizes Mary’s unique blessing and honors her as the mother of the Lord. She exclaims, “Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of the things which have been spoken to her from the Lord!” (Luke 1:45).

Elizabeth’s words highlight the blessing that comes from faith. Mary believed the angel’s message, even though it seemed impossible. Her faith was not a passive acceptance but an active trust in God’s word. This kind of faith brings joy, both to the one who believes and to those around them. Elizabeth’s joy is a response to Mary’s faith, and the presence of Jesus within her. This reminds us that our faith can be a source of joy and encouragement to others.

2. The Power of Humble Surrender:

Mary’s response to Elizabeth’s greeting is known as the Magnificat, a song of praise that reveals Mary’s heart. She begins with the words, “My soul magnifies the Lord. My spirit has rejoiced in God my Saviour, for he has looked at the humble state of his servant” (Luke 1:46-48).

Mary’s humility is evident in her recognition that all generations will call her blessed, not because of her own merits, but because of what God has done for her. She sees herself as God’s humble servant, chosen to play a part in His divine plan. Her surrender to God’s will is complete and joyful, rooted in the recognition of God’s greatness and mercy.

The Magnificat goes on to speak of how God has shown strength, scattered the proud, brought down the powerful, and lifted up the lowly. Mary’s song is a celebration of God’s justice and mercy, and it reveals the radical nature of God’s kingdom, where the humble are exalted, and the mighty are brought low.

3. The Faithfulness of God:

Mary’s song also reflects on God’s faithfulness to His promises. She recalls how God has helped His servant Israel, remembering His mercy and fulfilling the promises made to Abraham and his descendants forever (Luke 1:54-55). In her own life, Mary sees the fulfillment of these ancient promises, and she rejoices in God’s unwavering faithfulness.

This reminds us that God is faithful to His word. He remembers His promises and brings them to fulfillment in His perfect timing. Just as Mary’s faith was met with God’s faithfulness, so too can we trust that God will be faithful to the promises He has made to us.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the example of Mary, who believed in Your promises and humbly surrendered to Your will. Help us to cultivate the same faith and humility in our own lives. May our souls magnify You, and may our spirits rejoice in Your salvation. Strengthen us to trust in Your faithfulness, knowing that You will fulfill all that You have spoken. Amen.

Contemplation:

Take a moment to reflect on the faithfulness of God in your own life. Consider the promises He has made to you through His word and how He has been faithful to fulfill them. How can you cultivate a more humble and surrendered heart, like Mary? Spend some time in silence, allowing God to speak to you and fill you with His joy and peace.

Scripture: John 15:12-17 (WEBBE)

12 “This is my commandment, that you love one another, even as I have loved you.
13 Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.
14 You are my friends, if you do whatever I command you.
15 No longer do I call you servants, for the servant doesn’t know what his lord does. But I have called you friends, for everything that I heard from my Father, I have made known to you.
16 You didn’t choose me, but I chose you, and appointed you, that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain; that whatever you will ask of the Father in my name, he may give it to you.
17 “I command these things to you, that you may love one another.”

Reflection:

In this passage, Jesus speaks to His disciples during the Last Supper, imparting to them one of the most important teachings of His ministry—the commandment to love one another. This love is not merely a feeling or an obligation, but a profound reflection of the love that Jesus has for us, a love that is willing to sacrifice everything for the sake of others.

1. The Command to Love:

Jesus begins by giving a clear commandment: “Love one another, even as I have loved you.” This commandment is the foundation of the Christian life. Jesus’ love for us is the model for how we are to love others—selflessly, sacrificially, and unconditionally. He challenges us to look beyond our own needs and desires and to place the well-being of others above our own.

2. The Greatest Love:

In verse 13, Jesus describes the greatest expression of love: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. This is the love that Jesus would soon demonstrate on the cross, where He gave His life for the salvation of humanity. This ultimate sacrifice is the pinnacle of love and serves as the example for us to follow in our relationships with others. While we may not all be called to physically lay down our lives, we are called to live sacrificially, putting the needs of others before our own, and being willing to give of ourselves for the sake of others.

3. Friendship with Jesus:

Jesus then makes a remarkable statement: “You are my friends if you do whatever I command you.” He no longer calls His disciples servants, but friends. This shift in relationship is profound. A servant follows commands without understanding the full picture, but a friend is brought into the confidence of the master. Jesus shares with His disciples everything that He has received from the Father, inviting them into a deep and intimate relationship with Him.

This friendship with Jesus is marked by obedience to His command to love. It is a relationship that is built on mutual trust, love, and commitment. As friends of Jesus, we are called to reflect His love in our lives, living out His commandments in our interactions with others.

4. Chosen and Appointed to Bear Fruit:

Jesus reminds His disciples that they did not choose Him, but He chose them. This is a powerful reminder of God’s initiative in our lives. We are chosen by God, not because of anything we have done, but because of His love and grace. He has appointed us to bear fruit—fruit that will last. This fruit is the result of living a life rooted in Christ’s love, a life that reflects His character and brings glory to God.

Jesus also promises that whatever we ask in His name, the Father will give it to us. This is not a blank check for our desires, but a promise that when we align our lives with His will and live out His commandments, our prayers will be in harmony with God’s purposes, and He will faithfully provide what we need to fulfill our calling.

5. The Command to Love Repeated:

Jesus concludes by reiterating the command to love one another. This repetition underscores the importance of this commandment in the life of a believer. Love is the defining characteristic of a disciple of Christ. It is through our love for one another that the world will know that we are His disciples (John 13:35).

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank You for the incredible love You have shown us, a love that is willing to lay down everything for our sake. Help us to follow Your example and to love others with the same selfless, sacrificial love. May our lives bear lasting fruit as we live in obedience to Your commandments. Strengthen our friendship with You, and guide us in all our ways. Amen.

Contemplation:

Spend a few moments reflecting on the love of Christ in your life. How can you better reflect that love in your relationships with others? Consider specific ways you can lay down your own desires or interests to serve and care for those around you. Ask God to help you grow in love and to make you a vessel of His love in the world.

Scripture:
“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves. For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.”
— Matthew 11:28-30 (NABRE)

Reflection:
Work can often feel overwhelming, with deadlines pressing in and responsibilities piling up. In these moments, it’s easy to forget that God is with us, offering His peace. Jesus invites us to come to Him when we are burdened and stressed. He doesn’t promise to remove all our work or responsibilities, but He does promise to carry the load with us. His yoke is easy, and His burden is light because He shoulders it with us. When we feel like we can’t take another step, we can lean on Jesus, knowing that He walks beside us, ready to give us rest.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I come to You today with a heart weighed down by stress and work. Help me to find rest in Your presence. Teach me to trust in Your strength rather than my own. As I take on the challenges of my day, may I do so with the peace that comes from knowing You are with me. Lighten my burdens, Lord, and fill me with Your grace. Amen.

Action Step:
Take a moment during your workday to pause, close your eyes, and pray. Seek the presence of God and be still. Know that you are not alone.