Advent Devotional: The Gospel of Lukeಮಾದರಿ

*Written by Jonathan Mellen

Luke Chapter 12 is divided into six sections. Jesus gives warning and encouragement, gives a parable about a rich fool, tells us not to worry, encourages us to be watchful, says he did not come to bring peace, and then talks about interpreting the times. There are a lot of things that Jesus is telling us here, but if you want to sum it up, it’s

1. Be loyal to me, and I will be faithful to you.

In our world today, we really don’t see this attribute of loyalty demonstrated. People do what they like to do. If I don’t like something, I don’t have to continue with it. We see this played out in different jobs and in marriages. People are quick to change when something isn’t to their liking. But Jesus says something different.

If you look at the language Jesus says, he is basically saying:

2. Be engaged!

You need to be engaged in a relationship with him. What catches our attention? What makes us engaged? We give our attention to things that interest us. Jesus is simply saying, "I should be your main interest.” He says, “Be on your guard,” publicly acknowledge me, be sensitive to the Holy Spirit, invest in eternal things, don’t worry, consider creation, trust in God alone, be dressed ready for service, and keep your lamps burning.” All these things that Jesus wants us to do can only be done if we first are invested in him. We must first have a relationship with him. You’re not going to give your loyalty to someone you don’t know. You are going to invest your money in a scam. You aren’t going to invest your time in something that you don’t like. You’re going to be engaged where your heart is.

So, how do you accomplish all of this? This chapter is not easy because Jesus is talking to us straight about His expectations. We can never live up to these expectations because we are ordinary sinners. Do I worry about things? All the time. Do I invest in earthly possessions? Who doesn’t? The first step in getting on the right path is to:

3. Become self-aware and repent.

The Greek word for repentance is “metanoia”. It literally means to think to change one’s mind and think the way God thinks. It’s something we must do. We need to first admit that we are wrong and that we need God. Once the Holy Spirit prompts us to become aware, then we must make changes. We start with the small stuff first. We make God the priority. We seek out the things of God first, then all these things will be added. Once you are aware that change needs to be made, then you will take steps to follow what Jesus is saying in this chapter. If you are worried about anything now, then take this as a step to become aware. God commands us not to worry.

Let's pray: Heavenly Father, Thank You for the wisdom of Your Word and the teachings of Jesus that guide our lives. Lord, we ask for hearts that are fully loyal to You. Help us to remain steadfast in our relationship with You, even when the world around us tempts us to stray. Teach us to stay engaged with You, to make You our primary focus, and to trust in Your eternal purposes over earthly distractions. Lord, we acknowledge that we often fall short. We worry about things we cannot control, and we invest in temporary treasures. Forgive us, Lord, for these moments of weakness. By the power of Your Spirit, help us to become aware of the changes we need to make. Give us the courage to repent and align our thoughts with Yours. Teach us to live ready, with our lamps burning, trusting in Your provision and faithfulness. May we seek Your kingdom first and live in a way that reflects our love and loyalty to You. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Reflection Questions:

1. What specific things do you worry about? When was the last time that you looked at how God took care of his creation? How are you resting in God? What particular concern do you need to surrender to God today?
2. In what areas of your life do you need to become self-aware and make God a priority? What evidence in your life shows that God is your number 1 priority?
3. In what tangible areas of your life can you engage with God daily? When is the last time you acknowledged God in public? How do you plan to engage in the future?