A new way of living
This fresh set of Daily Devotions is being provided for our LCA/NZ family, friends and visitors to help us to keep our eyes on Jesus as we face unsettling times. They can be used by families and individuals as part of the LCA/NZ’s Church@Home resources to encourage us and build trust in our Heavenly Father during this season of uncertainty and isolation.
Click here for your printable verse to carry with you today.
A NEW WAY OF LIVING
Then Jesus said to Simon, ‘Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching people!’ (Luke 5:10b, NET)
‘Afraid’ is just one word to describe how many of us are feeling right now. Dismayed. Astonished. Perplexed. Anxious … and more also come to mind. And, at one level, that’s okay – especially when we acknowledge the emotion, know that Jesus sees it, and invite Jesus to heal it.
It’s amazing that Jesus takes something that Simon, James and John were doing and improves it, and brings them into a whole way of living – in perhaps just a moment.
It’s at a time like this that we know for sure that we are being brought into a whole new way of living in a moment. It’s also worth reflecting on whether Jesus wants to improve something in us, too.
In our world today, many people are afraid – and they are looking for hope. Some will look to us.
Jesus said: You are the light of the world. A city located on a hill cannot be hidden. People do not light a lamp and put it under a basket but on a lamp stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before people, so that they can see your good deeds and give honor to your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:14-16, NET).
The reality is that you cannot be hidden. You are on a lamp stand. People are looking to you. What a great opportunity! Jesus is in you! And through you, he shines his light to the world. Praise God!
Father God, when the whole world changes around us, we are so often afraid. Yet Jesus’ first disciples followed you into the unknown. Give us the courage to do the same. Help us to embrace the challenge of following Jesus. Send us your Holy Spirit, that we may shine your light, and understand that you have new opportunities for us to fish for people with love and grace in a dark world. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
