Lent 2024 | Day 16

By Janet Nygren
Day 16 (Saturday, Mar 2)

As I enter prayer now, I pause to be still; to breathe slowly, to re-center my scattered senses upon the presence of God.1

Pause and pray.

“This is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God.” (Philippians 1:9-11)

Think about it.

Yesterday we thought about comforting and encouraging others because of the comfort and encouragement we have received. Paul told his audience that as they do that, it completes his joy. I’m sure that as Paul saw his disciples follow his example, he was encouraged all the more to walk in the path of Jesus’ suffering to produce more resurrection moments, and that, in turn, encouraged others to do the same. I am struck by the interconnectedness of encouragement, comfort, and love. It is a glorious upward spiral that can spread exponentially. As you read today’s passage again, keep in mind that “you” and “your” is plural, with the whole Philippian church in mind. Paul’s prayer is not just that an individual will grow, but that love in the community as a whole will grow. This is my prayer for our church as well!

Consider.

As we prepare to celebrate another Resurrection Day (Sunday), let’s be on the lookout for resurrection moments happening throughout our church community.  Have you seen examples this week of others putting aside their reputation, denying themselves for the sake of encouraging, comforting, and loving one another? Let’s prepare to give glory and praise to God for the way his love for us has multiplied as we love one another.

Pause and pray.

Jesus, help me to know you better.

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”
(John 13:34)
 
Notes
  1. Prayer used daily in Lectio365 found at https://www.24-7prayer.com/resource/lectio-365/

1 Comment


Nick Tebordo - March 2nd, 2024 at 11:21am

Love comes first! Jesus said, "Greater love has no man than this that he lays down his life for his friends. That goes right along with dying to self, taking up our cross and following where He leads-resurrection hope.

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