Daily Devotional for January 24, 2023

Every week, our church identifies someone as the Member of the Week.  These are people who are either going through a very hard time or celebrating a huge milestone in their lives.

The members of our congregation are asked to write cards to the Member of the Week, letting them know they are loved, valued, and being prayed for.  It’s one of our most impactful ministries.

This week, our special member is Donnell.  He is one of the finest people I have ever met.  He turned 100 years old this past Sunday.

Another special ministry of our church are the periodic classes we teach on Methodism.  These classes are not restricted to new members or those coming from another denomination but are available to any of our members who want a refresher on what it means to be Methodist.

Yesterday, after the staff meeting, Brenda reminded me nine years ago, when Donnell was 91 years old, he began attending the Methodism class.  He told Brenda at his age; he probably needed a refresher class.  This got me thinking.

While some believe being a follower of Jesus Christ is incredibly complicated, it’s not.  In fact, this is where the acronym for KISS principle shines.  This means “Keep it simple, stupid.”  (Ignore the stupid part.)

As always, when it comes to matters of faith, the best answers come from scripture.

John summarized what it means to be a Christian by saying, “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.  Indeed, God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.”  (John 3:16-17)

To be a Christian is to believe God loves you so much, he would rather die than live without you.  That’s exactly what God did.  Now all we do is live to please God.  

Prayer:  Dear Gracious Heavenly God, in those moments when I am distracted and confused, help me keep the main thing, the main thing.  In Jesus’ name I pray.  Amen.

Donnell is not the only one who needs a refresher.  I do too.

Also, don’t forget to send Donnell a card.  He’s a great guy and he’s now officially older than dirt.

I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins