Home > Reading > NALC Devotion – February 28, 2017

Today’s readings: Deuteronomy 6:16-25; Hebrews 2:1-10; John 1:19-28

In our gospel reading, John the Baptist is called to an important task in God’s salvation plan: to direct people to the Messiah. Like a road sign directing drivers to the next town, John points to Jesus Christ. He also offers people of faith guidance in their calls to serve the Lord.

First, the Baptist “confessed.” Sunday morning confessions gift us with a moment to give our burdens to Christ, and be set free through His forgiving grace. John the Baptist makes this powerful confession, “I am not the Christ.” In humbleness, he knows that his role is not to be the Savior. Likewise, as servants of God, our role is not to claim God’s position, but to humbly be our Lord’s instruments.

Next, John defines his call by quoting Isaiah, “I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness.” His call is telling people about their Savior. We too, are given this call. We are empowered by God to tell the story of the Savior. Because people live in darkness, we are called as both laity and clergy to gift them with the story of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Prayer: Dear God, send your Spirit upon us and strengthen us in our calls. Amen.

Today’s devotion was written by Norm Sulaica, Pastor of Our Savior Lutheran Church, Three Rivers, TX.

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