Devotion for Sunday, June 2, 2024

“Then Jesus said to him, “See that you say nothing to anyone; but go, show yourself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, as a testimony to them” (Matthew 8:4).

At first you may wonder why Jesus did not want this known.  Jesus was humble while walking on the earth, but this was something between Jesus and the leper.  It was personal healing.  Do what you have been commanded to do and give a testimony to what God has already established, lest you forget humility and slide into pride.  How often do we make public what should remain private?

Lord, help me to obey all that You command even when I do not understand.  If you grant the desire of my petition, let me praise You.  If You do not grant my petition, let me praise You.  As the hymn says, “This is our Father’s world.”  Moving from the prideful notion of God being under our direction to the place where we are under God’s direction is the challenge before us when we pray.

Holy Spirit, You know the way I pray.  Lead me away from prayers that demand to prayers that look to You for guidance.  Guide me in Your goodness to learn how to pray without ceasing, seeking the Father’s will in all I say and do.  Teach me the way to pray and bring me to remembrance of the Lord’s Prayer.  In all my prayers, help me to see Your loving hand of guidance.  Amen.