Daily Devotion, July 16, 2023

 

Devotion:

Read Luke 10:17-21.

Scholars tell us that this is one of the happiest, most joy-filled times for Jesus that is recorded in any of the gospels. Why was this such a joyous time for Christ? It seems he was seeing his ministry among us taking root and bearing fruit. He knew that his time on earth was limited, and he needed to find followers who would learn from him, go out, and do the work he had been doing. The twelve apostles had done exactly that, and now the 72 had taken on his work as well.

When I was a child, l beamed when my mother or dad affirmed my work. As time went on, I learned the things that made them happy, and I tried my best to do those. As adults, we love to please those to whom we look up to and respect as teachers, mentors, and models for us. This passage reminds us that, when we go and do the work of Christ and do it well, we bring joy to Christ’s heart. That amazes me and makes me want to do that even more. We serve as students and apprentices to the ultimate master and Lord of all! And as we learn and grow, there are apprentices waiting for us to pass along the lessons we have learned; and the master will guide them just as he guides us.

Personal Worship Option:

Give thanks today for the lessons you have learned from Christ through others. Commit to continuing to learn from him as you grow and mature as a follower. Ask God if there is someone you are being called to teach or mentor in the ways of Christ.