Devotion for Tuesday, October 27, 2026

“And he came into all the district around the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins; as it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, “The voice of one crying in the wilderness, ‘Make ready the way of the Lord, Make His paths straight” (Luke 3:3-4).

The beginning of the Gospel introduces repentance for the forgiveness of sins.  The Lord alone forgives, but we need to be willing to be forgiven.  We have the will to expect, but we also have the ability to give up that will in contrition.  Perhaps humility is a word that describes this ability.  This is the beginning place for us all, humbly coming to the Lord in repentance, being forgiven so that we can continue on the journey of salvation.

Gracious Lord, You offer mercy to the contrite.  It is not my act of repentance, but Your mercy which forgives.  Help me to hear and heed the words which call for me to repent whenever and wherever it is needed.  Lead me in the way of everlasting life.  Conform me to what You know I need to be reformed.  Guide me in Your will to walk according to Your ways in the grace You give me.

Lord Jesus, You were baptized with a baptism of repentance.  You have led the way and we are to follow.  Help me to overcome the willfulness in me that thinks I am exempt from anything You know I need.  Guide me to look to You, and then follow, without any second thoughts my will might inject.  Teach me how to be obedient, as You were obedient to the Father’s will, in all that I experience.  Amen.