Devotion for Saturday, August 17, 2024

“As they went away, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to look at? A reed shaken by the wind?  What then did you go out to see? Someone dressed in soft robes? Look, those who wear soft robes are in royal palaces” (Matthew 11:7-8).

Why is humanity so smitten with fancy dress, pomp, and circumstance?  The greatest beauty is all around us, but we would rather pretend.  “Be a princess, be a prince,” the world says.  The King of kings has shown up as an ordinary, even blue-collar, lower-class man.  Why do we chase what is imaginary when reality is with us?  Do not seek to be entertained; seek eternity through the grace you have been given by Jesus.

Lord, we do chase dreams.  There is nothing wrong with seeking to live the life You have been given, along with all its goals and the perseverance it takes to attain them; but do not be tossed about by the fickle winds of this world and chase after things with a wrong motive.  John served the Lord, and many were entertained by him.  He did not come to entertain.  Nor did Jesus.  If you hear only one thing, hear this: this is the most important pursuit you will ever have.

Lord Jesus, You give us serious instruction.  It is not that we must be stern and deprive ourselves all of the time, but I do waste so much time simply entertaining myself.  You have called me to pursue eternity.  Like John, You have called me to proclaim the Good News in the wilderness of this world.  You are not an entertainer and my life is not only about being entertained.  Bring me into real life to live for and with You now and forever.  Amen.