Leviticus 1:1-3:17
Mark 1:29-2:12
Psalm 35:17-28
Proverbs 9:13-18
Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. Mark 1:35
Jesus, the son of God, fully human and fully God, prioritized spending quiet time with His Father. Even on the eve of his death, when he knew that His time was near, He went into a time of prayer and conversation with God. He didn't run away or abort the mission. He was and is perfect, pure and holy. On Sunday, Pastor Rich asked us how we picture Jesus, and right now I am picturing him praying in Gethsemane, His heart reaching out to His Father, Our Father, his commitment to our Lord and the hope for His people; us. This is the level of faith, trust and devotion that has resulted in the curtain being torn in two and salvation being there for those who believe. I read this as truth, I get my cup filled during readings, sermons, small group and conversations, yet I still fail to prioritize quiet time and prayer with Him like Jesus did.
It makes me wonder: What kind of relationship am I currently fostering with God? In what ways can I improve my communication with Him this week?
Jesus paved the way for us to be in relationship with God, where we undeservingly receive His mercy and forgiveness. Jesus modeled what this relationship should look like and how to communicate with our Heavenly Father in each of our days. No matter how busy our lifestyles are, we only have our lives because of God Almighty, and we only have the hope of eternal life because of the sacrifice of Christ Jesus, our Lord and Savior. Let's step forward into each new dawn with a focus on prayer and relationship. For those who are already strong in this area, I kindly ask that you pray for wisdom and discernment for those of us who are not prioritizing our lives correctly. As the body of Christ we are united, and as the body of Christ we can continue to grow and support one another.
Heavenly Father, thank you for being with us and having patience with us. Thank you for offering your protection and your mercy. Thank you for your forgiveness and your promises. Thank you for sacrificing your perfect son so that we may be saved. Please reveal to us the areas that need work in our hearts, and please guide us along the paths that are aligned with you. Please forgive us for the times that we make ourselves and our circumstances the priority, instead of exalting you in your honorable and righteous position. You are the center of our being and you are the creator of our very existence. We thank you, Lord, and we love you. Please hear our prayers and draw us closer to you. Thank you for your perfect example of how to live, love and be close to you, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Amanda
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