Home | About Us | Bishop's Office | 2024 Lenten Devotions | Tuesday, March 26, 2024

BISHOP'S OFFICE

In September of 1995 my mother called our family together to share the news that we needed to start preparing for her death. She knew that it was just a matter of time before she would go home to be with the Lord. I can remember experiencing how troubled my mother’s spirit was and yet, being amazed at her unwavering hope and trust in the Lord. No matter what she faced in those difficult days leading to her death, she focused on her faith and shared her joy in having Jesus Christ as her personal Lord and Savior. Many that came to visit April to say their good-byes said that while they were in her presence it was as if they had been in the presence of Christ.

Jesus’ soul was troubled as he shared the news that the time had come for him to be exalted. The disciples heard him talk about his death before but now it was imminent. Jesus was not expecting for them to feel sorry for him, but he needed them to understand how his death would impact them and have eternal impact in the world. It was in this moment that the disciples had to make a choice. Each one of them had to ask themselves if they were willing to follow wherever Jesus led them. There was no turning back! Jesus said, “Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honor the one who serves me.” (vs. 26, NIV).

During this Holy Week we are invited to examine ourselves and ask if we are being faithful in following Jesus wherever he leads us. Who are the people we are called to serve? Where are the places we are called to go?

Lord, make your ways known to us and give us your grace to follow wherever you lead us. In Christ’s name, Amen!

Bishop Tracy S. Malone wrote this devotion for publication in The Upper Room Disciplines: A Book of Daily Devotions 2024, available at www.cokesbury.com.