Devotion for Monday, September 21, 2026

“And they said to her, “There is no one among your relatives who is called by that name.”  And they made signs to his father, as to what he wanted him called” (Luke 1:61-62).

You cannot break tradition!  What has gotten into you?  We have always done it that way.  The world, while tolerating all types of garbage, focuses upon trivial things and gives you a bad time.  The mother must have some kind of postpartum thing going on, what does the father want?  Mind you, names were much more important for them then, but the pattern of meddling is still present.

Lord, where I become excited over some small things that really do not matter, help me to leave behind the temptation to give into the world’s indignation.  Where there are those around me who are in a feeding frenzy of correctness, help me to go the other way.  Lead me to be of a sane mind that pays attention to what is important to You and leave behind what is not.  Guide me to listen and follow Your guidance.

Help me, Lord Jesus, for You know what it is like to have the crowds pressing in.  Those around You wanted You to do all sorts of things.  Help me to look beyond them to see You so that I may hold fast to what is the right thing to do.  Guide me through all of the anxiousness in this world so that I may do the Father’s will.  Lead me to that place where I will hear You give me my new name.  Amen.