Devotion for Sunday, December 15, 2024

“Now when Jesus came into the region of Caesarea Philippi, He was asking His disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?”  And they said, “Some say John the Baptist; and others, Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah, or one of the other prophets” (Matthew 16:13-14).

This is the most important questions anyone can ask.  We all have religion.  We often follow the religion we were taught, or else, by rejecting the religion of our parents, follow some other religion.  All of these are following the beliefs of other people.  But, if you ask the question and learn the answer, your religion can blossom into faith in the One true God who saves.

Lord, help me to dare to ask the question when I have doubts.  Then, help me to hear and understand the answer.  No longer in the realm of religion, but in the realm of reality, Help me to know in my heart and spirit that You are the One through whom I exist.  By the Holy Spirit, make the connection so that I may live by faith and not just with religion.  Take me deeper into You and in so doing, come and deepen faith in me.

Thank You, Lord, for all that You are doing.  In the mystery of the faith which You have given me, guide me ever deeper into the new life You have given me by grace.  Help me to understand more and more each day so that I become more and more like You with each step of faith.  In Your goodness and mercy, teach me all that I need to know to remain faithful to the good confession that You are the Christ.  Amen.