Devotion for Sunday, May 15, 2022

“Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, sends greetings to you, and so do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke, my fellow workers” (Philemon 23-24).

Is this Mark who wrote the Gospel?  Is this Luke who wrote the Gospel?  The church has always been very connected.  You are a part of a fellowship that has been strong throughout history.  The communion of saints is a very real thing.  You have been grafted in by the grace of Christ.  Do you consider yourself a part of this continuity and family?  You should, for you are.  Send greetings to one another.

Lord, I think of my local fellowship as the church.  And sometimes I do not think of these things at all.  Help me realize that You are knitting together Your church.  You have brought together people from every tribe, tongue, and nation.  Lead me, Lord, in the way You know I need to go and guide me according to Your word to be an encouragement to others, knowing that we are eternally connected through faith in You.

Lord Jesus, You died for the church, Your bride, in order that we may be eternally connected.  Guide me, knowing that I am a part of the eternal fellowship which You have created through the grace and mercy You have given from the cross.  Lead me, Lord, now and always to live in the love You are teaching me so that I may now and always be guided by Your goodness.  Be with me, Lord, this and every day.  Amen.