Devotion for Friday, November 24, 2023

“Blessed and holy is the one who has a part in the first resurrection; over these the second death has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with Him for a thousand years” (Revelation 20:6).

What is the first resurrection?  Is it the new life Christ gives in baptism to those who believe?  Though you die, yet shall you live.  Do you believe?  He will make you a priest.  That is not some high position; what it means is that You have the ability to draw near to Him and speak to others of the wonder of His love.  Having faith like a child is keeping these things simple and not being filled with pride as the world tends to do things.

Lord, my pride sees the word first and that is what I want to be a part of. Then it sees the word priest and I think of power and glory.  Finally, I see reign and I once again think of myself and power.  But none of these are true.  You have called me to draw near to You in the promised new life which You have given me.  We will be children of God, as will be true of You and all others who have faith.  I will be in fellowship with them too.

Lord, Sovereign Judge, You who know all things, guide me in the goodness and mercy of Your grace to live in the reality which You have created, doing what is befitting all righteousness, and being content with whom You are making me to be.  Lead me in the way of righteousness this day.  Do not let me become caught up in the speculation of all these things, but instead, live humbly with You, my Lord and God.  Amen.