Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room
February 2, 2024
Luke 18:15-17
15 People were bringing babies to Jesus so that he would bless them. When the disciples saw this, they scolded them. 16 Then Jesus called them to him and said, “Allow the children to come to me. Don’t forbid them, because God’s kingdom belongs to people like these children. 17 I assure you that whoever doesn’t welcome God’s kingdom like a child will never enter it.”
Good Morning! Release your inner child to see the full glory of God!
When we are children, we see things we don’t understand and are filled with awe and wonder. When we look through the lens of wonder, we can focus on the special design, the pattern, and the beauty without trying to take control of it. We see it, and we think, “WOW!”
Christ teaches us that we must humble ourselves to enter God’s kingdom. Instead of humbling ourselves, we go to great lengths to gather enough knowledge to be in control (to be the boss.) Each year, we fill our baskets with power, desire, wealth, and status, exponentially increasing the difficulty of just walking away and leaving this behind to follow Christ.
Remember the story of the rich man who asked Christ what he must do to join him, and Jesus told him to sell all he had and give it to the poor. The man walked away because he could not let go of his earthly treasures.
Our childlike awe and wonder lie within us. Open your heart and give yourself the grace to let your inner child come out to play.
Gracious God, Thank you for this beautiful gift of life. Our earthly standards can get in the way of seeking you. Help us focus on your goodness as we walk through the world. We thank you! In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen
Thought for the day: Look for the awe and wonder of God that surrounds us.
Look Closely and be filled with Awe! Pastor Liz