A United Methodist Pastor's Theological Reflections

"But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory (nikos) through our Lord Jesus Christ." - I Corinthians 15:57


Tuesday, October 5, 2010

Jesus & Prayer


As my congregation begins the 2nd day of a month long stewardship daily devotional focus on prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness, in addition to today's devotional reading, I read this portion (see below) of the Gospel lesson from "The Daily Office."

One of the distinctive features of Jesus' life and ministry was his prayer life. His healings created quite a stir and as crowds began to form, Jesus knew that in order to stay rooted in his mission and purpose, he needed to rely on prayer.

I'm thankful for how the Gospel writers continually remind us of Jesus and his consistent prayer life. We too, can turn to prayer throughout the day so that like Jesus, we stay rooted in our mission and purpose.

Luke 5:12-26 (NRSV)

12 Once, when he was in one of the cities, there was a man covered with leprosy. When he saw Jesus, he bowed with his face to the ground and begged him, 'Lord, if you choose, you can make me clean.' 13Then Jesus stretched out his hand, touched him, and said, 'I do choose. Be made clean.' Immediately the leprosy left him. 14And he ordered him to tell no one. 'Go,' he said, 'and show yourself to the priest, and, as Moses commanded, make an offering for your cleansing, for a testimony to them.' 15But now more than ever the word about Jesus spread abroad; many crowds would gather to hear him and to be cured of their diseases. 16But he would withdraw to deserted places and pray.
.

No comments: