Becoming Like Jesus: Silence and SolitudeSample

The Son of Man

Pray…

Lord Jesus, have mercy on me. I’m a sinner and I’m desperate for your grace. When I fall short of your standard, remind me of your mercy. Teach me how to live and help me stay true to the life you purchased for me with your sacrifice. In your name I pray, amen.

Read…

Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” - Mark 10:42-45 NIV

Consider…

Jesus called Himself by the title Son of Man more than any other. Why? Because more than any other title, that one captured the truth that Jesus is fully God and fully human. He is God made flesh who walked on this earth to bring about the salvation of mankind. Jesus was fully God, and yet He never used His own divinity to His advantage. Instead, He humbled Himself and allowed Himself to die on the cross so we could be forgiven of our sins and reunited with God.

How often do you find yourself more concerned with what God or others can do for you than what God wants to do through you? How does this passage help you better understand what following Jesus is really about?

Listen…

Find a comfortable place where you won’t be distracted. Maybe a cozy chair, a closet, or even sitting outside on a porch.

Set a timer for 5-10 minutes.

Settle into God’s presence by taking a few deep breaths and praying this prayer.

As you breathe in, “Lord Jesus…” When you breathe out, “Have mercy on me.”

Breathe in, “Heavenly Father…” Breathe out, “You’re all that I need.”

In, “Holy Spirit…” and out, “Breathe on me.”

Repeat this several times until your mind is clear and your body is still. When you’re ready, ask God to speak to you.

When you get distracted, repeat the above prayer to help you bring your attention back to God.

When the timer ends, thank God for the time you spent together and head into the rest of your day with a clearer sense of His presence.