Made New Prayer DevotionalSample

THOUGHT OF THE DAY

Life is not meant to be lived in solitude, but it is designed to be lived in a life-giving community called the Church. We were created to share this life with one another. Historically, before scripture was easily accessible and available to everyone for personal use, it was read aloud as a community practice. People would gather to simply sit and hear someone read the story of their God and how He chose to connect with them – His creation. Let me challenge you today. Go through the day’s readings with a friend, a spouse, or a family member. Embrace and interact with this traditional community practice.

Let’s continue to walk through John 14:18-21:

I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. Yet a little while and the world will see me no more, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. In that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you. Whoever has my commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves me. And he who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and manifest myself to him.

Today, read this portion of scripture out loud three times, each slower than the last. Reflect on what Jesus may mean in verse 19 when he uses the word “live.” Are there any other pieces of scripture that might help inform your understanding of this word choice? Hint: Look at John 4:10-11.

GUIDED PRAYER

Lord, as I spend my day at work, bring Your Words to life in my spirit. Make Your Word come alive in my life today. Bring to my remembrance Your Words and help me to dwell on Your thoughts. Lead me to situations where I can have life-giving conversations. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

REFLECTION

What did you pray for today?

How will you let this experience shape your interactions with others?