Devotion for Sunday, August 17, 2025

“They spat on Him, and took the reed and began to beat Him on the head.  After they had mocked Him, they took the scarlet robe off Him and put His own garments back on Him, and led Him away to crucify Him” (Matthew 27:30-31).

The wickedness of this world drives humaneness out of us.  Spitting on people, beating them about their head, and mocking them; these are still done by those who are wicked.  But that harshness was inflicted upon Jesus.  The torment of this world was heaped upon God.  “Why doesn’t God do something if He is so good?”  He takes it and, for those who believe, it dies with Him.  He’s done everything needed for our salvation.

Lord, I know that this wickedness has been in me.  I may not have acted it out, but it is still there.  Kill it Lord and take it away.  Lead me upward and out of the pit of this world to be embraced by You, the lover of my soul.  Guide me according to the goodness You have put into creation and, by Your Holy Spirit, lead me in the Truth Incarnate, the One who took my sin upon Himself.

Lord Jesus, beyond the physical suffering which You endured, the beating continues with each generation who continue to mock and hate You.  Lord, despite the pain in this world, help me to love and see the goodness which has come through You.  Lead me according to Your goodness to be more like You with each passing day.  I need Your help and guidance every day  in this muddled world.  Amen.