Daily Devotion, July 9, 2022

 

Devotion:

Read Matthew 4:18-20.

Our focus this week is on either beginning or deepening a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. This Scripture passage for today is focused on beginning that relationship. In the days when Jesus was here on earth, those seeking to be disciples of a rabbi (teacher) would approach that person and seek permission to follow them. As he often did, Jesus reverses that method and initiates the relationship. We are reminded that it is God who has always initiated a relationship with us as humans. God gave us life and when we broke relationship with God, God began to seek us. Jesus sought those who would follow him.

As they accepted his invitation and began their relationship with him, he did not expect them to know much about him or understand his teaching. After all, they were just getting to know him. He was simply inviting them to (as the younger generations would say) “hang out” with him and get to know him, to listen to his teaching and watch how he related to other people, especially the least, last, lost and lonely.

If you have not yet begun a relationship with Jesus, know that he invites you to follow him as well. Be assured that you are welcomed at Christ Church. Come “hang out” with us in worship, in a study group and/or join with us as we serve the needs of others.

If you have begun a relationship with Jesus, take the initiative to invite others to join you on this journey with Christ. Help them feel welcomed as they are. Invite them to experience life in Christ for themselves and to connect with his people. Tell them how you began your journey with him and listen with curiosity and non-defensiveness when they ask questions. Help them get off to a good start as they begin their journey with Christ.

Personal Worship Option:

If you simply want to explore what a relationship with Jesus Christ is like, contact us and let us help. For those already on the journey, who might you invite to come along?