Today's Reading:Genesis 5:1-7:24
Luke 1:57-80
Psalms 3:1-8
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Focus Verses:
Luke 1:76-79
76 "And you, my child, will be called a prophet of the Most High; for you will go on before the Lord to prepare the way for him, 77 to give his people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins, 78 because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven 79 to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace.”
Insight:
Zechariah celebrated and prophesied at the birth of his son, John. His son, John the Baptist, would be a prophet of the Most High. He would be the forerunner of the coming Lord. John's ministry would prepare the way for all that God would mercifully give through his son, Jesus Christ: salvation, forgiveness, light, and peace.
Response & Action:
Am I prepared to receive the blessings God provides through Jesus? Is my heart soft, my will surrendered, my spirit contrite, and my mind receptive? John preached repentance and action. He preached that in order to be prepared for God's salvation and mercy, I must be humble, have the desire to turn away from sin, and be ready to produce fruit that corresponds with faith and repentance.
O Lord, help me to love you with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. Give me a contrite heart and a humble spirit. Help me to delight in your will and walk in your ways to the glory of your name. May I be receptive and welcoming of all the blessing, mercy, forgiveness, light, healing, and peace that you have extended to me through Jesus. Help me to fix my eyes upon him, to follow him, and love him above all else. Amen.
Spiritual Formation Verses: Hosea 10:12
12 Sow righteousness for yourselves, reap the fruit of unfailing love, and break up your unplowed ground; for it is time to seek the LORD, until he comes and showers his righteousness on you.
Resources:
Renovation of the Heart: Putting on the Character of Christ
by Dallas Willard
