The Upper Room Devotion for Friday, April 29, 2024, was written by Judy Thomas of Maryland.
Scripture
31 At that very hour some Pharisees came and said to him, “Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you.” 32 He said to them, “Go and tell that fox for me, ‘Listen, I am casting out demons and performing cures today and tomorrow, and on the third day I finish my work. 33 Yet today, tomorrow, and the next day I must be on my way, because it is impossible for a prophet to be killed outside of Jerusalem.’ 34 Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! 35 See, your house is left to you. And I tell you, you will not see me until the time comes when you say, ‘Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.’”
Luke 13:31-35 NRSV
Author's Thoughts
As a young Christian, I committed myself to making the world better first through nursing, then child advocacy, and finally through ordained ministry. Now at the end of my eighth decade, I feel sad that I might die without seeing more of what I had envisioned as the reign of God. I still see injustice all around me. The COVID pandemic revealed global inequities; democracy is threatened around the world; war or threat of war is often present; common civility seems to be in decline.
Jesus had similar feelings of disappointment as he gazed at his beloved Jerusalem. Yet despite warnings from some Pharisees and the threat of death, he did not let this deter him from continuing his healing work. Seeing Jesus as an example of courage, perseverance, and purpose has given me renewed hope that I can still make a difference in my community by remembering my neighbors - near and far - as persons God calls me to love. I pray each day for the strength and courage to do just that.
Pastor Anthony's Thoughts
Friends,
One of the many questions many people of faith wrestle with is: How can God be good when there is so much bad in the world? We don't need to look far to find reasons to be disappointed and wonder where is God? We are living in increasingly perilous times, where we seem to find more reasons to disagree and demonize others than we do seeking common ground. It is natural to wonder if our actions have any impact on what is going on around us. May we each find the perseverance we need to keep fighting the good fight of faith.
Author's Prayer
Holy One, like a mothering hen, keep us safe in your care as we seek to share your love. Amen.
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