Lent: Journey According To LukeSample

THE PRESENCE OF GOD

DEVOTION
This passage is filled with fascinating, disturbing details that raise intriguing questions about one of the more difficult areas of theology: the end times. If you are like me, it takes intentionality to push past speculation and focus on the main message of the passage, which is really quite clear.

Like the days of Noah and Lot, the world is headed toward an end when many will engage in life without concern for God. Jesus takes time to explain this to his followers. However to the Pharisees who ask the question about when the kingdom of God will come, Jesus states that it is now among them in his person. In other words, they must deal with him here and now! The same is true today. In the face of the debate as to whether Jesus is the only way, Christ’s message is that the road to participation in God’s presence and blessing goes through him. ‘The kingdom of God is among [us]’ in the person and spirit of Christ.

FOR REFLECTION
• In the midst of your struggles and questions, do you ever simply pause to intentionally sense God’s presence around and within you in the person of Christ? It can make a difference!

PRAYER
God, we thank you for your active presence in today’s world through the Spirit of Christ. Comfort and encourage us during those times we are so caught up in details that we forget the clear presence of your love for us.