Devotion for Friday, August 28, 2026

“You will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth.  For he will be great in the sight of the Lord; and he will drink no wine or liquor, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit while yet in his mother’s womb” (Luke 1:14-15).

Before we were in the womb, the Lord knew us.  The son of Zacharias was born for a certain kind of life.  He would not be like most.  This is not a judgement of God as to good or bad, but a call for the purpose for which John would live his life.  We each have a call on our life, and the question is whether or not we will follow that call.  Any child following the Lord is a child that brings joy and gladness.

Lord, humble me to know that You have created me as I am and for Your purpose.  I have the self-will to wander, but I also can relinquish that will for Your will to be done in me.  Lead me by Your Spirit to live according to the direction You give.  You know who I am and what You intend.  Help me to live into Your intention so that I may humbly walk with You always.

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for coming into the world to encounter us where we are so that we could join with You to be where You are.  Help me to understand that everyone has been wonderfully made according to the Father’s purpose.  Guide me into the unity You intend that I may live according to the call You have placed upon my life, learning to love You and my neighbor.  Amen.