A Morning Devotion That Sparked Reflection
Have you ever considered that the Gospel of Luke might hold a Christmas gift for us?
One of the most meaningful parts of my morning devotional routine is reading and praying through Lectio 365, a daily app created by the 24-7 Prayer movement. Each week, a new author leads readers through Scripture, meditation, and thoughtful insights tied to a theme.
On December 2, the theme was "Firm Foundations," and Carla Harding's reflections shifted my perspective on the Advent season in a way I hadn't expected.
Luke's Purpose: Certainty and Firmness
Luke's Gospel contains the most detailed account of Jesus' birth. In his opening verses, Luke explains why he undertook the task of documenting the life of Christ. Here's the part that struck me:
"It seemed good to me... to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, so that you may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught." Luke 1:3-4, ESV
Carla noted that the Greek word translated as certainty carries the connotation of security and firmness. She challenged her audience with a poignant question:
"As I embark on this journey through the Christmas story...how firm and secure does my faith in what I've been taught about Jesus feel?"
That question stopped me in my tracks. How often do I skim through these familiar passages without allowing them to truly anchor my soul? Luke didn't just give us a historical account. He gave us a tool to fortify our faith, a foundation to stand on when the storms of life shake us.
A Gift to Fortify Your Faith: Advent as a Season of Renewal
This year, I'm inviting you to join me in moving slowly through Matthew, Luke, and John's accounts of the birth of Jesus. Let's savor the story. Let's allow the truth to sink deeply into our spirits and strengthen our foundations.
The beauty of Advent is that it offers us a chance to reflect, rediscover, and rebuild our spiritual lives. I pray this Christmas season is a time for you to feel the firmness of your faith like never before.