Devotion:
Read Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-9.
All down through human history, people have claimed that God (or “the gods”) was on their side. If their crops did well or if they won the battle, it was proof that they were being favored by heavenly forces. They were also sure that being wealthy was a sign that God was on their side.
However, there are several places in the writings of the prophets of the Old Testament that God was on the side of the poor. God favored the least, the last and the lost. God was constantly upset with his people if they did not treat the lowest among them with justice.
For his first sermon after Jesus started his ministry, he read from this passage, letting everyone know what he saw his mission to be. It would include a focus on those most in need of hearing good news; those who most needed to know that God was not only aware of them, but that God loved them. And he certainly lived that mission throughout his ministry, constantly meeting needs of those around him. In order for us to represent him, we will need to maintain a similar focus.
Personal Worship Option:
Consider setting a goal for yourself of doing something at least once each week that meets a need of someone who is poor. It is another way to worship (to show your devotion to) God.
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