Listen

Grace and peace to you from the one who is and was and is coming, and from the seven spirits that are before God’s throne, and from Jesus Christ—the faithful witness, the firstborn from among the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth.

To the one who loves us and freed us from our sins by his blood, who made us a kingdom, priests to his God and Father—to him be glory and power forever and always. Amen.

Revelation 1:4b-6

Think

Do you like to play or follow any sports? I usually keep up with the National Basketball Association (NBA), particularly their playoff games. It strikes me how there are athletes who don’t have the opportunity to play all season. I am not referring to those who are injured or hurt; I am referring to those who are totally healthy but are not chosen to play. These players train, travel with the team, show up to games in their uniforms, and have to stay on the field or court even though they know they will most likely not be part of the action.

This does not happen in the kingdom of Christ. It is God who calls us to serve through active roles. God’s love has not only freed us from sin but makes us part of a larger plan, and we are called to be actively involved. Daily, our heavenly coach devises strategies for us to grow and be instruments of blessing for others. The triune God gives us authority, through God’s power, to actively serve as an influence.

Wilfredo Mercado Reyes

Question to Ponder:

Will you answer God’s call to active participation in serving others?

Pray

Creator God, Redeemer Christ, and Sustainer Spirit, I desire to discern your will and respond to your call.

One way I can be more open to your call is…

Cleanse me and use me for your glory.

Amen.

Go

Radiate light and share the truth.
Live with dignity and attain its fullness.
Do not be conformed, answer God’s call.
You are a child of the King of kings!