Devotion for Saturday, February 22, 2025

“But the crowd sternly warned them to be quiet; yet they cried out all the more, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!”  And Jesus stopped and called them, and said, “What do you want Me to do for you?” (Matthew 20:31-32)

Crowds are always speaking an opinion that runs contrary to what the Lord is going to do.  Pay attention to what is said, not to follow, but to understand that we are often led by the crowd and not by our Lord.  Listen and learn.  Our Lord asks, “What do you want me to do?”  Ask Him and see what He will do.  Asking is not telling, so be bold and ask.  Has not our Lord said that we do not receive because we do not ask?

Lord, teach me to ask with the right motive.  Lead me in the direction of hearing what the crowd is saying so that I understand when it is You who is giving me the right answer.  There are people all around me who are in need of mercy.  Guide me to have discernment so that I humbly walk in the way of obedience to Your word amidst the cacophony of this world’s shouts.  Teach me how to be faithful to You.

Lord Jesus, You have come to lead all who believe in the way of everlasting life.  Guide me this day to humbly walk in the way of faith.  Shut my mind to the calls of the crowds of this age and open my mind to Your word of truth.  Guide me in the faith You have given me and help me to be bold in the call to serve others so that I am faithful to Your call.  Guide me, Jesus, in the way You would have me live today.  Amen.