Lenten Devotion - April 9, 2025
Wednesday, April 9, 2025
Scripture: John 12:4–6
Devotion:
Judas criticizes Mary’s generosity. “Why wasn’t this perfume sold and the
money given to the poor?” But John notes his motives weren’t pure—he didn’t
care about the poor, he was looking out for himself.
Sometimes critiques of the church come from genuine places.
Sometimes they come from fear, envy, or self-interest. Either way, Jesus
doesn’t let criticism derail love. He defends Mary’s act and affirms her place
in the story.
Church can be different when it resists the temptation to
perform or to please every voice. It can be a place of honesty, where both
motives and actions are examined in light of love—not efficiency, power, or
appearances.
Action Steps:
- Reflect:
Where in your life is fear disguised as criticism or judgment? Name it
gently.
- Offer
encouragement to someone who’s doing something bold or different, even if
you don’t fully understand it.
- Choose
to listen to someone today with openness rather than defense.
Prayer:
God of truth and love, help me examine my motives and be led by love rather
than fear. Help me speak with grace and listen with humility. Amen.
Breath Prayer:
Inhale: Shape my heart…
Exhale: To reflect Your love.
Comments
Post a Comment