JOURNEY: DAY 5

Active Faith

Today's reading comes from the last book in the Bible and is a vision that the apostle John had while in exile for his faith. In the vision, Jesus speaks messages to different churches for John to pass on. Today's message was for the church in Laodicea. 

Jesus was disappointed with many in the church because they had become indifferent about their faith. Life had become convenient and as a result, they were complacent. Jesus invites them to return to an active relationship with Him. 

Indifference can be a temptation for all of us. We can fall into the temptation to get busy with life and forget about the most important relationship in our lives. Interestingly, Jesus uses the activity of eating here as a metaphor. Usually, it's only those closest to us with whom we eat. It's this space Jesus wants in our lives -- a real, active, close relationship.

If possible, find a space outside -- maybe a walking trail or back deck. Put yourself in God's creation. Let your focus turn to the beauty and incredible design of how God put the world together. 

Prayer: Lord, I thank You for creating this amazing world. Thank You for giving attention to every detail. Thank You also for creating me. You created me with value, purpose, and meaning. Thank You for helping me to connect with You today!

Memory Verse: 

"Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me." (Rev. 3:20)

SCRIPTURE:

“To the angel of the church in Laodicea write: These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God’s creation. I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth. You say, ‘I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.’ But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked. I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see. Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent. Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me. To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat down with my Father on his throne. Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” - Revelation 3:14-22 NIV