MonroeOHUMC

  Saturday, April 5, 2025 Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:20–21 Devotion: Paul ends this passage by calling us ambassadors for Christ—representatives of grace. As those who have been found and reconciled, we now carry the message of hope to a world still searching. This isn’t about being perfect. Ambassadors don’t invent the message—they simply embody it. Your story of restoration—your healing, your scars, your return—is what God uses to help others believe they can come home too. You are a living message of reconciliation. Let your life speak grace. Action Steps: Think about your spiritual story. Share a part of it with someone this week. Ask God: “Who needs to hear your message through my life?” Write down who comes to mind. Wear or carry something that reminds you that you represent Christ’s love today. Prayer: Holy One, thank you for trusting me with your message. Help me represent your love with humility and boldness. May my life be ...

Friday, April 4, 2025 Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:18–19 Devotion: Paul says God reconciled us through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation. We’re not just forgiven—we’re invited into the work of healing and restoration for others. The word reconciliation means “bringing back together what was separated.” When we experience grace, we’re meant to extend it. That means reaching out, bridging gaps, forgiving generously, and building relationships rooted in peace. Being found isn’t the end of the story—it’s the beginning of a new calling. Action Steps: Write down one relationship where reconciliation might be possible. Pray about one small step you can take. Choose one way to be a “bridge-builder” today—between friends, coworkers, or family. Thank someone who has helped restore you in the past. Prayer: God of restoration, thank you for reconciling me to yourself. Make me an agent of your peace, someone who builds bridges and welcomes others int...

Thursday, April 3, 2025 Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:16–17 Devotion: Paul reminds us that in Christ, we are new creations. The old has passed away. The new is here. This isn’t just about a clean slate—it’s about a transformed identity. So often we define ourselves—and others—by past mistakes, old labels, and lingering guilt. But Paul urges us to see differently. When we are found by God, we are made new. Our story doesn’t end where we thought it would. You are not who you used to be. You are not your failures. You are a new creation. Action Steps: Look in the mirror and speak truth: “In Christ, I am made new.” Shred or throw away something symbolic of “the old you.” Journal a vision of who God is helping you become. Prayer: God of new beginnings, thank you for recreating me. Help me live in the freedom of your grace—not in the shadow of my past. Amen. Breath Prayer: Inhale: The old is gone… Exhale: The new has come.  

  Wednesday, April 2, 2025 Scripture: Luke 15:25–32 (The Older Brother) Devotion: The older brother hears the party and is furious. He’s been faithful, obedient—but no one ever threw him a celebration. He resents the grace shown to his younger sibling. Sometimes, our brokenness isn’t rebellion—it’s resentment. We may not have left the house, but our hearts are far from joy. We compare. We feel overlooked. We question grace when it’s extended to someone else. But the father comes out to the older son too. He reminds him, “You are always with me, and all that is mine is yours.” Even the bitter heart is invited into the joy of restoration. Action Steps: Reflect: Do you struggle to rejoice when others receive grace? Talk to God about that honestly. Send a note of encouragement to someone who’s experienced a recent “comeback.” Thank God for the “party” already available to you—list 3 blessings today. Prayer: Gracious God, forgive me when I w...

Tuesday, April 1, 2025 Scripture: Luke 15:11–24 (The Lost Son Returns) Devotion: The son had wasted everything. He rehearses a speech, hoping to return—not as a son, but as a servant. But his father sees him from a distance, runs to him, embraces him, and restores him completely. This is the gospel in motion. God doesn’t wait for perfect words or a flawless track record. God moves toward us in grace. There’s no shaming, no scolding—only joy at our return. Many of us carry shame. We believe we’ve ruined our chances with God or with others. But Jesus shows us that no matter how far we’ve run, there’s still a robe, a ring, and a feast waiting for us . Action Steps: Write a short letter to God expressing what’s on your heart—no filters. Is there someone you need to forgive or ask forgiveness from? Make the first move. Listen to a song about grace and reflect on the father’s welcome. Prayer: Merciful God, when I feel unworthy, you still call me y...